1849-C Half Eagle (1849-C $5) NGC AU53. Traces of luster are hidden in the devices of this evenly colored, pleasing branch mint 1849-C Half Eagle. Light abrasion is seen on the obverse with somewhat less on the reverse, in keeping with the grade. None of the marks on the coin are significant enough to be individually described. The strike is average on the obverse and a little stronger on the reverse.

The 1849-C is a Gobrecht Coronet Head, No Motto piece. After Mint Engraver William Kneass was incapacitated by a stroke, Christian Gobrecht took over his responsibilities. Robert Patterson, the Mint Director, wanted all the gold coins to have uniform designs, and he directed Gobrecht to design a coin that was a smaller version of the eagle.

All southern branch mint gold is rare in any condition and eagerly sought by collectors. The original mintage of the 1849-C half eagle was 64,823. In its population report NGC shows only 204 certified in all grades.