5239

[L#5239] 1838-D $5 NGC AU58

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:2,750.00 USD Estimated At:11,000.00 - 13,000.00 USD
[L#5239] 1838-D $5 NGC AU58
The Classic Head design dates to August 1834, when the amount of gold in the quarter eagle and half eagle were reduced. Prior to 1834, our gold coinage had a gold value that was more than the face value, thus those coins in circulation were swiftly isolated and hoarded (or melted), and those who held gold bullion refused to have it made into coins. As a result, the years prior to 1834 have become major rarities today. The Classic Head coinage, first struck in August 1834, was an instant success with the public, due simply to the slight weight reduction, from 8.75 grams to 8.31 grams. This change represented a 5% weight reduction and a similar discount in value from a little over $5.00 per coin to a little under $5.00. The Mint Act of June 28, 1834 was the enabling legislation to reduce the weight of these coins. Written to take force on August 1 that year, this bill's language also included a reduction in the weight of the ten dollar gold eagle.

In recent years, thousands have paid attention to the rare mintmarked issues of Classic Head half eagles with a concomitant rise in price, especially for higher-grade About Uncirculated specimens like this. The 1838-D, with a mintage of 20,583 pieces, is one of the most difficult condition rarities in the entire Half Eagle series from the Dahlonega mint. It also happens to be a distinctive issue inasmuch as it is the <I>only Classic Head half eagle from Dahlonega</I>. Lustrous, admirably struck, glossy surfaces, and unrivaled eye-appeal.