1859 Proof Half Dime Pattern - J-232, Transitional

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1859

Denomination

Patterns

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Proof

Series

Early Republic Patterns (1792-1859)

Designer

Anthony C. Paquet (obverse)

Composition

90% Silver, 10% Copper

Weight

1.24g

Diameter

15.9mm

Edge

Reeded

Value Estimates

Up to $70,500

Values from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.

Auction Record

Price realized: $70,500
Sold: 23 June 2014
Grade: PR65
Auction house: Heritage Auctions

Description

Cataloged as Judd-232 (Transitional), this variety of the 1859 proof half dime pairs Anthony C. Paquet's distinctive Seated Liberty obverse with the new cereal wreath reverse destined for adoption in 1860. Like the transitional dime (J-233), this coin was born from the Mint's piecemeal implementation of a major design overhaul, where new reverse dies were ready before the obverse dies were updated. Paquet's Liberty is immediately recognizable by her more upright posture and restyled head compared to the regular Seated Liberty figure, along with the hollow-centered stars around the border. The reverse displays the cereal wreath of corn, wheat, and other agricultural products that would serve on half dimes from 1860 until the denomination's abolition in 1873. Struck in the standard 90% silver, 10% copper composition with a reeded edge, this transitional piece carries the correct silver alloy of the regular half dime issue. USPatterns confirms about ten; the idea was repeated on the 1860 half dime Judd-267. Reference data: struck in silver with a reeded edge, rated R-6. Catalogued as Judd-232, Pollock-279, A/W 309.