1870 Proof Half Dime Pattern - J-813

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,775 PR65 01-25-2004 Superior Galleries

Description

Introducing a Liberty Head obverse with a smaller portrait than the standard Seated Liberty, this silver half dime pattern pairs its distinctive obverse with a value-within-wreath reverse. The reduced-scale Liberty Head was better proportioned for the tiny half dime planchet, addressing a longstanding design challenge where the seated figure could appear cramped on the smallest silver denomination. Barber's experimentation with portrait scale demonstrated awareness that different denominations might benefit from design approaches tailored to their specific physical dimensions.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-813, Pollock-906