1834 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-51

Coin Details

Auction Record

$175 AU Details 06-12-2019 eBay

Description

Judd-51 is a proof striking of the 1834 Classic Head half eagle, the first year of William Kneass's new design created following the Coinage Act of June 28, 1834, which reduced the weight and gold content of American gold coins. The obverse features Kneass's Classic Head portrait of Liberty facing left, with a hair band inscribed LIBERTY, thirteen stars around the border, and the date 1834 below. The reverse displays an eagle with a shield on its breast, perched on an olive branch and holding arrows, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and 5 D. These proof strikings were produced for inclusion in the diplomatic presentation proof sets assembled for the King of Siam and the Sultan of Muscat in late 1834, the same sets that included the famous 1804 dollars and eagles. Approximately 6 to 10 examples survive today, making this one of the rarest proof gold coins of the 1830s.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 6-10 examples known.

Cross References

Pollock-53