1838 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-73, Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

Cataloged as Judd-73 (Pollock-77) and rated R.5, this restrike version shares the same die pairing as the original 1838 striking. The obverse presents a draped bust of Liberty facing left with a diadem and LIBERTY inscribed on a ribbon in her hair. The reverse features a Gobrecht-style eagle with an open beak and a wider neck than the dollar version, flanked by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR. Struck in silver with a reeded edge and medallic alignment. uspatterns.com dates the restrikes from the late 1840s into the 1870s, with increasing die cracks and rust. Distinguishing original strikings from restrikes can be challenging with this die pair, though differences in surface quality, sharpness, and provenance sometimes provide clues. The R.5 rarity rating encompasses both original and restrike populations combined. Reference data: struck in silver with a reeded edge, rated R-5. Catalogued as Judd-73, Pollock-77, A/W 72, Taxay EP97. Restruck throughout the 1840s to the mid 1870s showing varying degrees of radial die cracks, rust, etc.

Rarity Notes

R-5 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-73; Pollock-77; Adams-Woodin 72; Taxay EP97