Definitely a neat find. It's crazy thinking about the country 150 years ago, and about how a coin can stay in circulation so long (or possible be reintroduced). I'm still looking to break into the 1800's CRHing I'm sure it will come with time.
what kind of shape was it in? last year i found an 1858-O seated that was in AG grade. i was very new to crh'ing and thought....wow! this stuff is easy (little did i know! LMAO!)
please post a pic when you get the time. i've seen only one pic of a seated found via crh'ing. it was in pretty good shape considering its age.
congrats to your wife's friend and good luck to you.