1867 Half Eagle Patterns

About This Coin

Extending the Reconstruction-era pattern program to the five-dollar gold denomination for a second year, the 1867 Half Eagle Patterns from the Reconstruction Era Patterns (1866-1869) series continued the Philadelphia Mint's exploration of new designs for one of America's most important gold coins. The half eagle had been a cornerstone of the monetary system since 1795, and the post-Civil War period presented an opportunity to reconsider its design. Obverse designs explored post-war coinage concepts beyond the established Liberty Head motif, while reverse dies tested various experimental compositions including nickel and aluminum. A notable auction result of $35K in PR63 grade at American Numismatic Rarities underscores the desirability of these pieces among advanced collectors. The various Mint engravers produced these dies during one of the most creatively productive periods in Mint history, generating experimental designs at unprecedented pace across every denomination. For specialists in Reconstruction-era patterns, the 1867 Half Eagle demonstrates continued refinement of ideas first explored in 1866 across consecutive years of the pattern program.