1987-W $5 Constitution MS70 Certification #80478786, PCGS #9626

Ron Guth

The United States Constitution was adopted in 1787, becoming the supreme law of the land and establishing a sound government that has endured wars (both external and internal), political division, and major societal upheavals.  In 1987 (the 200th anniversary of the adoption), the U.S. Mint created special commemorative Silver Dollars and Half Eagles ($5 gold pieces) to honor the occasion.  The obverse of the Half Eagle features a side profile of an eagle with its wings raised, holding a quill pen; the reverse shows a vertical quill pen behind the words "We the People" in calligraphic style.  Both Mint State and Proof versions were sold to collectors at a premium over the gold value.  All of the U.S. Constitution Bicentennial Half Eagles were struck at West Point.

Collectors will have no difficulty locating superb quality examples, still at a relatively low premium over the intrinsic value.