1805 Half Eagle Pattern - J-38, Private Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$31,200 MS64 02-25-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

Judd-38 is another Dickeson-produced private restrike using the rusted 1805 Capped Bust Right half eagle obverse die, but distinguished from J-36 by variations in the reverse die or composition. Like J-36, this piece combines the federal 1805 half eagle obverse in a deteriorated state with one of Dickeson's privately made reverse dies. The obverse shows Liberty in the Capped Bust style with prominent die cracks and rust pitting consistent with decades of storage outside the Mint. Montroville Dickeson produced these restrikes at various times during the late 1850s and 1860s, creating a small number of numismatic curiosities for collectors. The different Judd numbers (J-36, J-37, J-38) reflect different die combinations, compositions, or edge treatments used with the same 1805 obverse die. These pieces are essential artifacts for understanding the intersection of official U.S. Mint history and the vibrant private numismatic market of the mid-19th century.

Rarity Notes

High R.7 to R.8. Approximately 3 or fewer examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-6037