1861-O 50C MS64+ PCGS CAC

The 1861-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar stands as a compelling artifact from the opening months of the Civil War, struck at the New Orleans Mint during a turbulent period when control of the facility changed hands. This particular coin was most likely produced before the mint was seized by the state of Louisiana, giving it an added layer of historical intrigue that appeals to both type collectors and specialists in Civil War–era coinage. The obverse presents Liberty seated with well-defined detail through the drapery, shield lines, and surrounding stars, while the surfaces exhibit strong underlying luster beneath a delicate veil of blue toning that gently drifts across the fields. Although the New Orleans Mint produced a substantial number of half dollars in 1861, examples with this level of preservation and visual appeal are seldom encountered. Population data shows a PCGS population of just 2 pieces at the MS level, while CAC reports 7 examples finer. The PCGS Price Guide lists $7,500 and no MS64+ PCGS CAC has sold; however, a lower graded MS64 PCGS CAC sold for 6,600 08/24 ST. We see this coin having strong upside potential.