***Auction Highlight*** 1834 Plain 4 Classic HM-2 Gold Classic Head Half Eagle $5 Graded Select Unc PL By USCG. This beautiful Choice example is from the brief and challenging Classic Head half eagle series of 1834 to 1838. Radiant golden-yellow surfaces are fully prooflike, the fields glassy and reflective while the devices are set apart with more of a satiny texture. The bold strike and outstanding eye appeal are sure to result in strong bidding activity.The introduction of the Classic Head design type in 1834 coincided with a weight reduction for the half eagle from 8.75 grams to 8.36 grams, brought about through the Act of June 28, 1834. The change was necessary as gold coins had been absent from domestic circulation since 1821, the vast majority having been struck as bullion coins and sent overseas where they were melted. Stateside, quantities of older gold coins were held by the Bank of the United States and some other entities, enabling the Philadelphia Mint to obtain much of the bullion it needed to produce the 657,460 pieces reported for the 1834 Classic Head through the destruction of older coins. As the first year of the new half eagle type, the 1834 has an above average rate of survival and is the most frequently encountered date in the Classic Head series. Mint State coins are in the minority among survivors, however, and they are rare relative to the strong demand from type collectors. This exquisite piece is sure to find its way into an advanced cabinet. A Corey's Pick, Bid to Win, Don't let it get Away, you might not find its equal Coin