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1870 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-939

Strike Type
1870 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-939

Coin Details

Year
1870
Denomination
Patterns
Mint Mark
P
Strike Type
Proof
Series
Standard Silver Patterns (1870)
Composition
Other

Auction Record

$9,430 PR60 05-01-1999 Superior Galleries

Description

Introducing the first new obverse design in the half dollar series, J-939 features William Barber's Liberty Head facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap ornamented with three stars and a ribbon inscribed LIBERTY crossing her shoulder. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircles the bust, with IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll below. The reverse retains the STANDARD agricultural wreath framing 50 CENTS with the date below. Struck in silver with a reeded edge, this three-star cap design represents Barber's departure from the traditional Seated Liberty toward a more modern portrait approach that he would continue refining throughout the Standard Silver program.

Rarity Notes

R-5. Approximately 25-50 examples known, one of the more available varieties in the half dollar series.

Cross References

Judd-939, Pollock-1052

External References

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