1916-S $5 Indian Head Half Eagle PCGS MS63

Here’s an attractive example of a better date in the popular Indian head half eagle series. PCGS has graded 311 specimens as MS63 with 170 finer. Collectors Universe prices this issue at $6,000.00 in MS63.

David Akers writes of this issue, "The 1916-S is invariably well struck and the mint mark is bold but lacking definition. Most of the known Mint State specimens are from the same hoard, and they typically have frosty, very finely granular surfaces .... Most of the hoard coins have a light greenish gold and orange toning. Other examples of this issue vary from bright yellow gold to rose colored gold to a medium coppery color."

Photo of Indian chief Hollow Horn Bear. Bela Lyon Pratt based his Indian head coin design upon him. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.