A lovely array of blended pastel coloration adds to the desirability. Mint-green, honey-gold, and pink-red are seen on both sides, especially on the reverse. The design motifs are sharply impressed and fully defined, and the smooth, virtually abrasion-free surfaces are characterized by a lovely satin sheen. The mintage of 2,680 pieces was low to begin with. Relatively few were saved as there was minimal numismatic interest in circulation strikes of this denomination during the Civil War era. Most of the survivors show varying degrees of circulation. The apparent scratch, across the upper reverse of the piece, is actually located on the back of the PCGS holder, and is not on the coin itself. Not only is this a rare date in any grade, but in this Gem preservation it is a rarity deluxe.
