1838 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-79, Restrike

Coin Details

Description

Judd-79 Restrike is the later production version of the 1838 half dollar pattern combining the Liberty Seated obverse with raised letters (Obverse 2) with Gobrecht's flying eagle reverse (Reverse B). The obverse and reverse designs are identical to the J-79 Original, but restrikes are distinguishable by their lighter weight (conforming to the reduced standard of the Mint Act of February 21, 1853, at 192 grains rather than the original 206.25 grains) and evidence of later die state including possible die rust and cracks. The restrike production dates to the late 1850s or early 1860s, when Mint officials produced pattern restrikes for sale to collectors and as "trade bait" for the Mint Cabinet. uspatterns.com disputes the restrike listing: no light-weight (192-grain) piece from this obverse die has been reported, and it treats the Judd and Pollock restrike entries as an error. Reference data: struck in silver with a reeded edge, rated R-7. Catalogued as Judd-79, Pollock-89, A/W 77, Taxay EP103. Raised liberty obverse (so-called curved date).

Rarity Notes

R-7 (USPatterns.com)

Cross References

Judd-79; Pollock-89; Adams-Woodin 77; Taxay EP103