1898 $5

Description

# 1898 Philadelphia $5 Liberty Head Gold Coin - PCGS MS66. Lot Overview. This exceptional 1898 Philadelphia $5 Liberty Head gold coin represents an outstanding example of the classic American half eagle series. Graded PCGS MS66, this piece exhibits the qualities that make it highly desirable to both type collectors and Liberty Head specialists. The coin displays the iconic design by Christian Gobrecht that defined American gold coinage during the late 19th century. Technical Details and Condition. The coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a weight of 8.36 grams and diameter of 21.65mm, featuring the characteristic reeded edge. The Philadelphia mint produced 633,420 examples of the 1898 date, making it relatively common in circulated grades. However, this specimen's achievement of MS66 is notably significant—PCGS has graded only six examples of this date, with just one finer. This superior preservation places the coin in the upper echelon of known examples, capturing the full luster and detail that collectors seek in choice uncirculated Liberty Head halves. Historical Significance. The Liberty Head $5 gold piece (1839-1908) remains a cornerstone of American numismatic collections. The 1898 Philadelphia issue, while not scarce in lower grades, becomes increasingly elusive in premium uncirculated condition. This MS66 example offers collectors the opportunity to acquire a high-grade representative of this beloved series at a significant premium to common circulated pieces, reflecting both its rarity in this grade and the enduring collector demand for superior examples of pre-1933 American gold coinage.