A change in the weight specifications for U.S. gold coins in 1834 prompted a design change to distinguish the new, lower-weight half eagles from previous old-tenor pieces. Earlier half eagles had a greater intrinsic value than their face value, which led to widespread hoarding and melting. Many of the heavier-weight coins were melted and struck as 1834 Classic Head fives, which feature a new portrait of Liberty without a cap. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is absent from the reverse. Two date logotypes exist. Most of the 1834 Classic Head half eagles have a Plain 4 in the date, while a single, scarce variety (as offered here) displays a Crosslet 4 date.
The NGC population is 16 with 9 graded higher.
Listed at $18,000 in the NGC price guide.
Offered at $17,500
Price reflected is based on payment via ACH, Bank Wire or Check. Add 3.5% for Major CC & PayPal.
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