Posted 12/18/2012 12:33 am
The 1881-S is a common date and is readily available in low mint state grade. Many other dates from 1880 through 1908 are likewise available and will have similar prices. Make sure the coin you choose has good eye appeal. There can be significant differences between examples graded MS-61; some might be heavily bag-marked while others can be more attractive with nice luster and only small, scattered marks. I advise holding out for a nice one!
Another choice would be one of the Canada five-dollar gold coins from 1912-1914. These might cost a bit more than a comparable common-date USA piece but are much scarcer.
