The 1838-D Classic Head Half Eagle (Buy on eBay) is the second of the two branch mint issues for the series. Struck at the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia, the total production for the issue was 20,583 pieces, representing the second lowest mintage of the series.
The survival rate for this issue is higher than the 1838-C Half Eagle, and accordingly there are more frequent auction appearances. However, the impact of extensive circulation did take its toll and mint state examples of the coin are very rare.
The highest graded examples from the major grading services are MS63. An example graded as such by PCGS sold for $94,000 in 2016.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: William Kneass
- Composition: 90% Gold, 10% and Copper
- Weight: 8.36 grams
- Diameter: 22.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded
