1871 Proof Half Dime Pattern - J-1065

Coin Details

Auction Record

$5,940 PR65 05-20-1996 Bowers & Merena

Description

Introducing a new obverse design featuring a more youthful Liberty Head profile, J-1065 was struck in the standard silver alloy and paired with a wreath reverse. This fresh interpretation of Liberty for the half dime denomination represents William Barber's attempt to modernize the design vocabulary beyond the Seated Liberty motif that had served since the 1830s. The youthful portrait style would influence later design concepts for small silver denominations.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples known.

Cross References

Judd-1065, Pollock-1200