1849 Mormon Five Dollar - Uniface Copper Obverse, K-5, Plain Edge Restrike

Coin Details

Description

The 1849 Mormon Five Dollar uniface copper obverse restrike, cataloged as Kagin K-5 with plain edge, represents a distinct die state or production sequence from the 1849 Deseret Mint half eagle obverse die. The K-5 designation differentiates this restrike from the K-4 variety struck from the same die, reflecting differences in die condition or production circumstances. Copper obverse restrikes of the Mormon half eagle show the iconic "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" inscription surrounding the All-Seeing Eye, the radiating beams of glory, and the bishop’s mitre — the core visual vocabulary of Mormon territorial gold coinage. Careful comparison of K-4 and K-5 specimens reveals subtle differences in impression depth, letter sharpness, and peripheral detail. Plain edge copper restrikes were the most straightforward type to produce, requiring only the obverse die, a copper planchet, and sufficient force. The absence of a collar die simplified the process but also meant that the resulting pieces could vary in diameter and edge character.

Rarity Notes

Rare. The K-5 variety is comparable in scarcity to other copper obverse restrikes of the 1849 half eagle.

Cross References

NGC #31260, Kagin K-5