1849 Mormon Five Dollar - Uniface Copper Obverse, K-4, Plain Edge Restrike

Coin Details

Description

The 1849 Mormon Five Dollar uniface copper obverse restrike, cataloged as Kagin K-4 with plain edge, preserves the obverse die of the Deseret Mint half eagle in durable copper. The K-4 designation in the Kagin reference system identifies this as a specific die state among the various copper restrikes produced from the 1849 five-dollar obverse die. The obverse of the Mormon half eagle features the full theocratic inscription "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" encircling the All-Seeing Eye of Jehovah with radiating rays of divine glory and the bishop’s mitre below. This copper impression captures the complete design as engraved by the Deseret Mint’s die cutter — attributed to John M. Kay. The plain edge on this K-4 variety distinguishes it from reeded-edge restrikes and other die state variants. Multiple Kagin numbers for the same denomination’s obverse die reflect the practice of producing restrikes at different times, resulting in measurable differences in die state, edge treatment, or planchet preparation.

Rarity Notes

Rare. The K-4 plain edge copper obverse is one of several half eagle obverse restrike varieties. Estimated survival of 10-20 pieces across all copper obverse varieties.

Cross References

NGC #31351, Kagin K-4