Seldom Seen Selections: Rare 1849 Oregon Half Eagle

The following is a press release from Heritage

Our Dallas Invitational PNG US coins Signature Auction features a territorial gold issue, the 1849 Oregon Five Dollar, K-1, that most collectors only dream of owning. Not necessarily because of the strong prices associated with Oregon Exchange Company half eagles, but simply due to the limited extant population.

It is believed that less than 50 examples have survived the original mintage of 6,000 pieces. A review of the NGC Census Report and the PCGS Population Report support the claim, as a combined total of only 49 1849 Oregon fives have been certified as of January 2015, a figure that most certainly includes a few resubmissions.

This example clearly circulated, as evidenced by the VF25 grade assigned by PCGS, which adds to its historical significance and charm. The few abrasions observed on either side are commensurate with the assigned grade and we note two milling marks near the obverse rim at 3 o'clock. The obverse patina is an even dark tan hue, whereas the reverse tone is a significantly lighter orange-gold color. A pleasant example of this highly challenging issue.