1827 Proof Capped Bust Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$258,500 PR67 02-09-2016 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1827 Proof Capped Bust Half Dollar is a proof half dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Capped Bust Half Dollars 1807-1839 series. With a mintage of 8, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 5 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a mob cap or turban, designed by John Reich who worked as an indentured servant at the Mint and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM within a motto scroll. Both "Square Base 2" and "Curl Base 2" varieties exist, reflecting different date punches used during production. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $258,500 PR67 02-09-2016 Stack's Bowers. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper, weighing 13.5 grams, 32.5 mm in diameter, with a lettered: fifty cents or half a dollar edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6205.