1879-CC $5 Liberty PCGS AU50 CAC

The 1879-CC $5 Liberty Half Eagle is a prized treasure from the legendary Carson City Mint, offering collectors and investors a compelling combination of rarity, historical significance, and certified quality. Struck during one of the most fascinating periods in American history, this coin embodies the rugged spirit of the Old West. Graded AU50 by PCGS and further certified by CAC, this example is not only preserved in exceptional condition for its age, but also recognized for its superior quality within the grade. With a mintage of just 17,281 pieces, the 1879-CC $5 Liberty is one of the scarcer issues in the entire Liberty Half Eagle series. Most coins from this mintage were heavily circulated, and very few have survived with the minimal wear seen in this AU50 specimen. The presence of a CAC sticker adds even greater prestige, as it confirms the coin meets strict standards for originality, surface preservation, and eye appeal. Only a fraction of AU50 examples receive CAC approval, placing this coin in the upper echelon of available survivors.

Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Liberty Head motif featured on this coin is a cornerstone of 19th-century American coinage. On the obverse, Liberty is portrayed in left-facing profile wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” surrounded by thirteen stars and the date below. The reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbols of strength and peace. What makes this particular example even more significant is the bold “CC” mintmark positioned beneath the eagle. Coins struck at the Carson City Mint carry immense cachet among collectors due to their frontier origins and consistently low mintages. Carson City gold evokes images of dusty mining towns, stagecoaches, and the relentless push westward that defined a pivotal chapter in American expansion.

In addition to its historical charm, this coin holds strong investment appeal. Carson City gold coins, especially those with low mintages and certified quality, are among the most actively pursued in the numismatic market. The 1879-CC issue, in particular, is notoriously hard to find in higher circulated grades, and examples certified by both PCGS and CAC rarely remain available for long. This coin strikes an ideal balance between quality and value. Its AU50 grade ensures the major design elements remain sharp and attractive, while the modest wear adds a sense of character and authenticity. For many collectors, this level of preservation offers the best combination of affordability and visual integrity when compared to the very limited and high-cost Mint State examples.

Collectors and investors alike understand the unique status of Carson City gold in the broader market. These coins not only represent sound numismatic value, but also serve as tangible links to a storied era of American history. The 1879-CC $5 Liberty Half Eagle in PCGS AU50 with CAC approval is an opportunity to own a certified piece of that legacy. Whether you are building a set of Carson City coins, investing in historically significant U.S. gold, or simply acquiring a standout piece for your collection, this coin checks all the right boxes. With its combination of rarity, eye appeal, and third-party verification, it offers an exceptional blend of history and value. Don’t miss the chance to secure this extraordinary example of Old West gold before it disappears into a long-term collection.