1870 Proof Half Dime Pattern - J-817

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,715 PR66 07-27-2003 Superior Galleries

Description

Presenting a Liberty Head with coronet obverse paired with a wreath reverse, this copper-nickel half dime pattern introduces yet another portrait variant into the denomination's design catalog. The coronet, a small crown-like headpiece, had been a staple of American coin design since the Coronet series of large cents and gold coins, and its application to the half dime denomination connected the tiny coin to a grand tradition of Liberty portraiture. Barber's copper-nickel composition choice aligned this piece with the contemporary Shield nickel rather than the traditional silver half dime.

Rarity Notes

R-6 to R-7. Approximately 10-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Judd-817, Pollock-910