1863-S $5 Half Eagle NGC AU58. Most of the gold coins that were minted at the San Francisco Mint during the American Civil War saw extensive use in circulation during the 1860s. Mintages were also small, creating a limited supply of pieces in any grade for collectors in modern times. Interestingly, this issue with a mintage of 17,000 pieces is nearly as scarce as the Philadelphia issue of the same year with a mintage of 2,442 coins for circulation. In high grade, it is extremely rare with no more than one or two pieces that even have claims to be in uncirculated condition. In fact, this piece is among the top of the census for this date, which is usually encountered in low and damaged grades.

The population reports for this issue show approximately 21 coins graded in AU-58 by NGC. We have to wonder how many of these actually exist, as auction appearances and offerings of this issue in this grade are extremely rare. Many, no doubt, were resubmitted over the course of time for a coveted Mint state grade, which only a single piece as of now has managed (a piece graded MS-61). From our own observations, it appears that no more than five to seven pieces would actually exist in AU-58.

This is a wonderful coin for this issue, which could easily considered to be the piece with the best eye-appeal. The strike is full, with all details fully showing on both sides. The surfaces are completely original, with rust red color toned to a bit more green in some areas. No major marks are noted on either side, although a few minor ones are noted for completeness. Only the slightest luster breaks are visible on the highest points, which prevented this coin from grading Mint state. In all, we offer here excellent value for the conscious collector, and a rare coin in any grade which is not offered with any regularity.