1838 Half Dollar Pattern - J-83a

Coin Details

Description

This copper pattern striking, cataloged as Judd-83a, represents an experimental version of the 1838 Seated Liberty half dollar design. Christian Gobrecht's obverse features the iconic Seated Liberty figure that would define American silver coinage for decades. The reverse carries the denomination HALF DOL., a departure from the previous 50 CENTS format, bringing the half dollar in line with the abbreviated denomination style already adopted for the Seated Liberty half dime and dime. Struck in copper with a reeded edge, this pattern measures 30mm in diameter and weighs approximately 13.36 grams. The shift to the HALF DOL. abbreviation, along with an increase in the size of the reverse lettering, created tighter spacing around the eagle device. Regular production half dollars of 1838 saw output comparable to the prior year, though overall mintage remained somewhat subdued during the economic disruptions of the Hard Times era (1837-1841). While Mint State examples of the regular issue half dollar are not exceptionally rare, gems are scarce, and this copper pattern version is considerably rarer still.