1870 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-954

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,463 PR64 01-07-2004 Heritage Auctions

Description

Pairing the inscribed-diadem Liberty Head obverse with the STANDARD wreath reverse on a copper planchet with a plain edge, J-954 presents this design in its most medallic form. Plain-edge copper patterns were particularly favored by contemporary European collectors, who recognized the medallion-like quality that American pattern coins displayed when freed from the utilitarian edge reeding of circulating coinage. This variety has appeared at auction in exceptional condition, with NGC CAC-approved examples reaching Proof-66 Brown with cameo contrast, demonstrating the superb die work that Barber invested in these experimental strikings.

Rarity Notes

R-7+. Extremely rare, estimated fewer than half a dozen examples known.

Cross References

Judd-954, Pollock-1097