The 1838-C Classic Head Half Eagle (Buy on eBay) carries the lowest mintage of the series with just 17,179 pieces struck at the Charlotte Mint in North Carolina. This issue also represented one of only two branch mint issues struck for the series.
As a result of the combination of the low mintage and heavy circulation, the 1838-C Half Eagle is very difficult to acquire in uncirculated condition. Even circulated examples with good eye appeal are rare, as many survivors have been cleared or damaged.
Only four examples are believed to exist in mint state grades. The finest known example graded PCGS MS-63 sold for $235,000 at auction in 2016.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: William Kneass
- Composition: 90% Gold, 10% and Copper
- Weight: 8.36 grams
- Diameter: 22.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded
