1838 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-75

Coin Details

Description

Judd-75 is an 1838 half dollar pattern struck in silver, combining the Kneass-attributed Liberty head obverse (Obverse 1) with the regular reverse of 1838 (Reverse D). The obverse features Liberty facing left with luxuriant tresses, a sunburst on her tiara, "LIBERTY" on the ribbon in her hair, seven stars to the left, six to the right, and the date 1838 below. The reverse displays a perched upright eagle holding an olive branch and three arrows, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above and "HALF DOL." below, matching the reverse design adopted for regular-issue Capped Bust half dollars of 1838-1839. This reverse die was also used with J-83. The J-75 represents one of several die combinations tested as the Mint evaluated potential half dollar designs during the 1838 transition period. Struck as a proof with a reeded edge, it conforms to the weight standard of the Mint Act of January 18, 1837.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 4-6 examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-81