1865 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-446

Coin Details

Auction Record

$12,000 PR66+BN 08-10-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1865 Proof Half Eagle Pattern - J-446 is a proof Gold Half Eagle 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: $12,000 PR66+BN 08-10-2023 Heritage Auctions. Struck in copper. Cataloged as PCGS #60633.

Rarity Notes

Rarity-7. Approximately 5-10 specimens known.

Cross References

Judd-446; Pollock-514; With Motto series