The Survival Estimate represents an average of one or more experts' opinions as to how many examples survive of a particular coin in three categories: 1) all grades, 2) 60 or better, and 3) 65 or better. These estimates are based on a variety of sources, including population reports, auction appearances, and personal knowledge. Survival estimates include coins that are raw, certified by PCGS, and certified by other grading services.
Numismatic Rarity
Numismatic Rarity converts the Survival Estimate for a particular coin into a number from 1 to 10 (with decimal increments) based on the PCGS Rarity Scale. The higher the number, the more rare the coin.
Relative Rarity By Type
Relative Rarity By Type ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Type. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Relative Rarity By Series
Relative Rarity By Series ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Series. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
David Akers (1975/88):
The 1911 is one of the most common issues of the type, and examples in the MS-60 to 63 range are obtainable with some regularity. In MS-64, however, the 1911 is rare but still obtainable with some searching. True gems are very difficult to find and superb quality pieces, although a few do exist, are nearly impossible to locate. Note: Only the 1908 can be found in MS-65 on a fairly regular basis. Although "common" by the standards of this extremely "difficult" series, the 1911 is certainly not common in gem condition in any absolute sense.
Like the quarter eagle of the same date, the 1911 half eagle is usually not really well struck, particularly on the obverse where some of the feathers in the headdress are weak. The surfaces are typically quite granular and the lustre is only good at best, never radiant. Color is generally light to medium yellow or greenish yellow gold but some pale orange gold examples are also known.
PCGS is not responsible for the accuracy or authenticity of Ebay listings.