1795 $5 PCGS AU55 BD-6 S/D

A landmark early U.S. gold issue, this 1795 $5 Draped Bust, Small Eagle Half Eagle represents the first year America struck five-dollar gold pieces. Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, these classic coins carried no stated denomination; their value was understood by weight, and many were later melted when gold prices rose. Survivorship is therefore limited, making original Half Eagles of this type notably scarce and consistently sought after by collectors. Offered here is the desirable BD-6 marriage, attributed as “Small Eagle, S over D” (BD-6). This die-variety attribution is important to specialists and adds an additional layer of collectability beyond date and type alone. Certified PCGS AU55 (Cert #57527397), the coin displays strong About Uncirculated detail with pleasing, lightly circulated surfaces and attractive early gold coloration with warm golden tones. Remaining luster is evident in protected areas, enhancing the Draped Bust portrait and the delicate Small Eagle reverse design that defined the earliest era of U.S. federal gold coinage. Population data underscores the challenge of locating comparable examples: PCGS Population: 1 in AU55 Only 3 graded higher Key details Date/Denomination: 1795 $5 Half Eagle Mint: Philadelphia Type: Draped Bust, Small Eagle (1795–1797) Variety: BD-6, “Small Eagle, S over D” Grade: PCGS AU55 Certification: PCGS Cert #57527397 An exceptional opportunity to secure a first-year U.S. Half Eagle with an important early die marriage, elite condition rarity at the grade level, and enduring historical significance for both advanced numismatists and collectors building a foundational U.S. gold type set.