With an estimated survival population of 145 to 190 specimens in all grades, the 1884-CC issue certainly ranks as one of the scarcer dates in the Carson City half eagle series. It is the third rarest date out of five issued by Nevada’s mint in the 1880s. Examples in Mint State condition surface only infrequently. We estimate that only about five and certainly not more than six Mint State pieces exist. It is important to emphasize that NGC’s bloated census showing seven MS-61 submission events (none in other Mint State grades) greatly exaggerates the extant supply. Likewise, NGC currently lists many more AU-58 submission events (@ 37) than the actual supply supports. PCGS currently reports 18 AU-58 submission events, which is explainable only by resubmissions of some of the same coins.

NGC AU-58 specimens appear quite regularly on the market, perhaps one a year (occasionally two or three) spanning the past two decades. PCGS AU-58 pieces have surfaced less frequently in recent times. As of this writing (late 2021), the last PCGS AU-58 example offered in an auction came in an October 2014 Heritage sale.

At the AU-58 level eye appeal varies substantially from coin to coin. Many specimens in this grade display average quality at best; some are extremely low end.

The CAC-approved PCGS AU-58 1884-CC half eagle offered here displays noticeably above-average physical attraction. Sufficient luster radiates from its light golden-orange-colored surfaces. Contact marks are at a minimum considering the grade. Well-defined details on most highpoints add to its eye appeal. Wispy and very thin hairlines delicately blend into the fields, mostly on the obverse’s left side.

Variety diagnostics visible include a thin threadlike diagonal line (as-struck) darting from below Lady Liberty’s eye to her ear. (This is barely noticeable without the aid of magnification.) Also, raised die-scratch lines extend through RTY in LIBERTY on the coronet and curve from above the Y into Liberty’s hair above the coronet.

Overall, this is lovely specimen that will bring much pleasure in owning.