1805 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-37

Coin Details

Description

Judd-37, Pollock-40, is a proof striking of the 1805 half eagle pattern featuring Robert Scot's Heraldic Eagle reverse design. The obverse displays the Draped Bust of Liberty facing right, wearing a cloth cap and with flowing curls, surrounded by thirteen stars and the date 1805. The reverse presents a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings holding an olive branch and arrows, with E PLURIBUS UNUM on a ribbon above and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding the device. This pattern is significant because 1805 was near the end of regular half eagle production before the denomination was suspended. President Jefferson ordered the Mint to cease striking gold half eagles and eagles in 1804 because the coins were being exported in bulk for their gold content, particularly to the West Indies where they traded at a premium. While a small number of 1805-dated half eagles were produced before the suspension took full effect, pattern strikings from this year document the continued refinement of dies even as production wound down. The proof format indicates this piece was struck with exceptional care, for presentation to dignitaries or for the Mint's own reference cabinet. The Heraldic Eagle reverse, adapted from the Great Seal of the United States, had been in use on half eagles since 1798 and would be the final reverse type before the denomination's long hiatus. Production would not resume until 1807 with John Reich's new Capped Bust design, making 1805 a pivotal transitional year in the series.

Rarity Notes

R.7 to R.8. Extremely rare. Fewer than 5-8 proof specimens believed extant.

Cross References

Judd-37; Pollock-40