1838 Proof Capped Bust Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$336,000 PR66+ 08-19-2018 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1838 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 5, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 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. The 1838-O Half Dollar, with only about 20 examples known, is one of the most famous U.S. coin rarities — the first half dollar struck at the New Orleans Mint. 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: $336,000 PR66+ 08-19-2018 Heritage Auctions. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 13.36 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6225.