1870 Proof Half Dime Pattern - J-819
Strike Type
Coin Details
Auction Record
$20,700 PR67 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions
Description
Struck in pure nickel rather than the standard copper-nickel alloy, this Seated Liberty half dime pattern with wreath reverse explores how a traditionally silver design performs in the harder, slightly yellower metal. Pure nickel's superior hardness compared to both silver and copper-nickel would have produced exceptionally sharp strikes, though the metal's resistance to deformation also increased die wear and required greater striking pressure. The pure nickel composition parallels J-807 in the nickel denomination series, reflecting a systematic interest in the metal's standalone potential.
Rarity Notes
R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples survive.
Cross References
Judd-819, Pollock-912
External References
Error Varieties
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