1870 Proof Half Dollar Pattern - J-970
Strike Type
Coin Details
Auction Record
$11,500 PR63 06-02-2010 Heritage Auctions
Description
Sharing the same dies as J-969, this silver pattern introduces a plain edge to the single-star coronet Liberty Head obverse and regular With Motto eagle reverse combination. The absence of edge reeding on a coin that otherwise mimics the appearance of a circulation half dollar created a subtle but important distinction: any merchant handling this piece would immediately sense something unusual when running a thumb along the smooth edge. This tactile signal was intentional, ensuring that pattern pieces could not be confused with actual circulating coinage.
Rarity Notes
R-8. Very rare, estimated 3 or fewer examples known.
Cross References
Judd-970, Pollock-1081
External References
Error Varieties
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