1810 $5 Capped Bust Large Date Large 5 PCGS AU50 CAC

The 1810 $5 Capped Bust Left Half Eagle is an important early U.S. gold coin, representing the second design type of the Half Eagle series and a pivotal moment in American coinage history. Certified PCGS AU50 and approved by CAC, this example offers both historical significance and collector appeal, with solid detail and originality that make it stand out in the marketplace.

The Capped Bust Left Half Eagle was designed by John Reich and introduced in 1807. His design marked a departure from the earlier work of Robert Scot, bringing new artistry and symbolism to America’s first circulating gold series. On the obverse, Liberty faces left, wearing a soft cap secured with a band inscribed “LIBERTY,” with long curling hair cascading below. Thirteen stars surround her portrait, symbolizing the original states, with the date below. The reverse features a striking heraldic eagle with wings outstretched, a shield on its breast, and an olive branch and arrows held in its talons. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “5 D.” complete the design. This combination of beauty, strength, and symbolism made Reich’s design one of the most admired of the early gold series.

The 1810 issue is notable because it comes with several die varieties, of which the Large Date, Large 5 is among the most popular. Specialists recognize the Large Date by its taller, bolder numerals, while the Large 5 in the denomination is distinct in comparison to other varieties of the year. These varieties provide collectors with opportunities for both general type collecting and more detailed variety collecting.

The total mintage of 1810 Half Eagles was 100,287 pieces, but only a fraction of that number has survived to the present day. Many were lost to circulation, melted in later years, or exported during periods of gold demand overseas. Today, the Capped Bust Left Half Eagle is scarce in all grades, and high-grade survivors are especially prized. Coins in About Uncirculated condition, such as this AU50, represent an ideal balance of affordability, detail, and rarity.

This example has been certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) as AU50, meaning it retains most of its original design detail, with light wear visible on the high points. The remaining luster and sharpness in the devices provide excellent eye appeal for the grade. Collectors seeking a strong representation of this early type often target AU coins, as they provide both historical context and visual beauty at a level more accessible than Mint State survivors.

Adding further desirability, this coin carries the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) sticker, confirming its originality and premium quality for the grade. CAC approval is especially important for early U.S. gold coins, where surfaces are often scrutinized for signs of cleaning or mishandling. The green CAC sticker assures collectors that this piece is solid for the grade and carries market acceptance among advanced numismatists.

Historically, the 1810 $5 Capped Bust Left reflects America’s early struggles and successes in producing gold coinage. During this era, gold coins were not commonly encountered in daily commerce but played an essential role in larger financial transactions and international trade. Surviving examples like this one provide a direct link to the nation’s first decades, when the Mint was still small, production was limited, and each coin required extensive manual labor to strike.

For collectors, the 1810 $5 Large Date, Large 5 Half Eagle offers a chance to own a tangible piece of early U.S. history. It is sought after both as a type coin for the Capped Bust Left design and as part of a more detailed variety set. Investors also appreciate these coins for their rarity, historical appeal, and enduring gold value.

The 1810 $5 Capped Bust Left Large Date, Large 5 PCGS AU50 CAC is more than just a collectible coin. It is a rare survivor from America’s early Mint, a coin that carries artistry, history, and value in equal measure. With its solid preservation, variety appeal, and CAC endorsement, it represents an outstanding opportunity for collectors of early U.S. gold.