1891-CC $5 (1891-CC Half Eagle) PCGS MS61. This mint state, richly colored, lustrous, branch mint 1891-CC Half Eagle has premium quality eye appeal and comes in an OGH (old green holder). Not a trace of wear is found on the coin, as expected for the grade. Many coins of this date and mint were shipped long distances and are heavily bagmarked; however, the surfaces of this specimen are clean for the grade with no distractions worth of individual mention. Unlike many pre-Civil War branch mint coins, this piece is well struck. The highest points of hair, the centers of the stars, and the eagles feather are complete and indicative of a full strike.

Authorized in 1863, the Carson City Mint began coinage in 1870 and continued until 1893. It was then operated as a government assay office until 1933 when it was closed as a cost cutting measure. During its operation the Carson City Mint made fifty-seven different types of gold coins. It also converted gold bullion and oar into gold bars which were shipped to San Francisco for coinage there. Coins issued from Carson City used the CC mint mark. Originally established to convert silver from the Comstock Lode to coinage, the Carson City Mint also processed gold in to gold coins.

In 1866 the motto IN GOD WE TRUST was added creating the Type 2 half eagle. It was added to all coins that were deemed large enough to accommodate it. The similarly designed quarter eagle was exempt because it was too small.