***Auction Highlight*** 1860-p R4 Clark & Gruber Half Eagle $5 Graded Choice AU By USCG. Progressing from a wholesale mercantile establishment first into banking, then making the progressive-but-logical step into assaying and coining the gold dust prevalent during the Colorado Gold Rush, Clark, Gruber and Co. struck what was by far the most prevalent of the Colorado gold pieces from their private mint in Denver. Clark, Gruber & Co. provided Colorado (Jefferson Territory) reliable banking and private mintage of gold coins in Denver and the surrounding area -- a much-needed improvement over trading in gold dust. Imitating the Federal style for their half eagle coinage, the gold content of the coins was as close to standard as possible and of the proper weight (or perhaps even a bit heavy), earning the firm a reputation for honesty and quality. This near-Mint State example is a rare territorial gold half eagle, sharply struck, with lemon-gold color. A splendid representative of the type, always in demand. A Corey's Pick, Bid to Win, Don't let it get Away, you might not find its equal Coin. I give this coin my highest recommendation