1865 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-431

Coin Details

Auction Record

$46,000 PR66 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1865 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-431 is a proof half dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $46,000 PR66 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions. Struck in other. Cataloged as PCGS #60616.

Rarity Notes

Unique or nearly so. The aluminum composition makes this one of the most remarkable Civil War patterns. Aluminum was more valuable than silver in 1865.

Cross References

Judd-431; Pollock-502; aluminum composition