1836 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-57

Coin Details

Auction Record

$282,000 • PR64 Cameo PCGS CAC • 11-2020 • Heritage Auctions (Bob R. Simpson Collection)

Description

Judd-57 is the 1836 Reeded Edge half dollar, designated Pollock-60, and represents one of the most historically significant half dollar patterns in American numismatics. The obverse features a modified Capped Bust design by Christian Gobrecht with six stars to the left, seven stars to the right, and the date 1836 below. The reverse depicts a perched eagle with shield on its breast, clutching three arrows and an olive branch, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above and "50 CENTS" below. These were the first half dollars struck on the Mint's innovative Thonnelier steam-powered coining press, marking a revolutionary advance in American minting technology. Mint records indicate that 1,200 circulation strikes and a small number of proofs, two dozen, were coined on November 11, 1836. Although listed as a pattern in all standard references, many modern numismatists now consider this to be a regular issue rather than a pattern, with the low mintage attributable to difficulties deploying the new steam-driven machinery.

Rarity Notes

Low R.7 as a proof. Approximately 10-12 proof examples known; 1,200 circulation strikes produced.

Cross References

Pollock-60; GR-1