1804 Half Eagle Pattern - J-31

Coin Details

Description

Judd-31 is a copper restrike of the 1804 Capped Bust Right half eagle, produced outside the Mint using original federal dies that had been retired from service. The obverse features the Capped Bust portrait of Liberty facing right with stars and the date 1804, while the reverse displays the Heraldic Eagle design. The dies show significant deterioration including prominent die cracks and rust, evidence of their use long after the original production of 1804 half eagles. Like the companion restrikes J-31a (copper, plain edge) and J-32 (tin), this piece was produced in the late 1850s or early 1860s, by Joseph J. Mickley or an associate who had acquired discarded Mint dies. The copper composition distinguishes this from official Mint products, which were struck in gold. Reference data: struck in copper with a reeded edge, rated R-8. Catalogued as Judd-31, Pollock-6085, A/W 25.

Rarity Notes

R-8 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-31; Pollock-6085; Adams-Woodin 25