A coin of grade AU 50 will show traces of wear on many of the highest parts of the design.

On many of these coins, some of the original mint luster is still present.

May have a few noticeable contact marks or flaws.

Obverse:  Traces of wear show on hair above eye, ear, edges off cotton leaves, and high upper fold of cap.  Partial detail is visible on tops of cotton bolls.  Luster is gone from the cheek.

Reverse:  There are traces of wear on the eagle's breast, tops of legs, wing tips, and talons.

Surface:  Three-quarters of the mint luster is still present.  Surface abrasions and bag marks are more noticeable than for an AU-55.

Full detail with friction over most of the surface, slight flatness on high points

Full detail with friction over most of the surface, very slight flatness on high points. Good eye appeal.