1834 $5 Classic Head Half Eagle, Plain 4 NGC AU58

The Coinage Act of June 1834 reduced the weights allowing half eagles like this coin to circulate thoughout domestic commerce, substituting for the “Capped Head” issues of struck between 1813-1834. This new design is from the school of William Kneass’ and his rendition of Liberty graces the obverse, while an adaptation of John Reich's reverse without the motto E Pluribus Unum was favored. These "classic" head half eagles were struck in greater numbers and are subsequently encountered more often in circulated than in mint state conditions. The present specimen has abundant luster remaining within the devices and in certain closer parts of the fields on both the obverse and reverse. Just the high points show broken luster and a light amount of wear, hence the About Uncirculated-58 grade assigned by NGC.