1838 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-76b

Coin Details

Auction Record

$29,900 PR63 01-25-2004 Superior Galleries

Description

Judd-76b is a rare 1838 half dollar pattern struck in copper, featuring the Liberty Seated obverse with raised letters (Obverse 2) paired with a spread-winged eagle reverse. The obverse displays the Liberty Seated motif derived from the 1836 Gobrecht silver dollar, with the word "LIBERTY" in raised (not incuse) letters on the shield, 13 stars to the left and right, and the date 1838 in a gentle curve below. All strikings from this obverse die are original issues, and it was also used with J-79, J-82, and J-83. The reverse features a spread-winged eagle holding arrows and a laurel branch. Struck in copper with a reeded edge and nearly medallic alignment, this is one of the rarest 1838 half dollar patterns. It provides critical evidence of the Mint's experimentation with the Liberty Seated design before its adoption for regular coinage, and the copper composition indicates it was produced as a die trial or presentation piece.

Rarity Notes

R.8. Only 2 examples believed known.

Cross References

Pollock-84