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. These restrikes are important numismatic artifacts in their own right, documenting the Mint's practice of reusing older dies to satisfy collector demand during the mid-19th century pattern restrike era.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Approximately 4-7 restrike examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-85