1839 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-101, Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$46,750 PR65 10-01-1997 David Akers

Description

Judd-101 Restrike is a later production of the 1839 half dollar pattern, produced using original 1839-dated dies that were restruck to meet collector demand. The obverse and reverse designs match the original J-101 die combination, but restrikes are distinguishable by their lighter weight conforming to the reduced standard of the Mint Act of February 21, 1853 (192 grains rather than the original 206.25 grains), and evidence of advanced die state. The 1839 half dollar pattern restrikes were produced alongside other pattern restrikes in the late 1850s and 1860s, during a period when Philadelphia Mint officials actively used older pattern dies to create pieces for collectors and institutional cabinets. These half dollar patterns represent the final stage of the design experiments that led to the adoption of the Liberty Seated design for regular half dollar coinage. All 1839 half dollar patterns are extremely rare, with most varieties known in only a handful of examples.

Rarity Notes

R.7+. Approximately 3-5 restrike examples exist.

Cross References

Pollock-111