Lot 1985
1838 Pattern Half Dollar. Silver Reeded Edge. Judd-72. Pollock-75 Rarity 5. PCGS graded Proof 66. CAC Approved PQ. Housed in an Old Green Holder. Lovely rich golden toning. Many new Patterns for half-dollars and dollars were produced in 1838 and 1839 as a result of the passage of the Act of 1837, which authorized a uniform standard of .900 fine for the coins of both silver and gold and reduced the weight of the silver dollars to 412 1/2 grains and that of the half-dollar to 206 1/4 grains.
Mint head James Ross Snowden states that this obverse die with the draped bust of Liberty was made by Mr. Kneass. Since Mr. Kneass was unable to work after suffering a stroke on August 28, 1835, this die must have been prepared before that date and apparently is the last work executed by him.
The original Pattern half-dollars were struck on planchets weighing approximately 206 grains, while the restrikes were made with planchets weighing approximately 192 grains as authorized in 1853.
The reverse depicts an eagle with spread wings holding an olive branch and four arrows. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA above and denomination HALF DOLLAR below.
The strike is strong at the periphery, but a little softness shows in the hair and eagle's breast. The surfaces are undisturbed and reflective, with warm golden toning over each side supported by a base of neutral silver-gray. Vivid relief is evident on both sides, resulting in the finely engraved detail. Complete stars. A sterling example! Pop 3; none finer at PCGS (PCGS # 11282) .
Estimated Value $7,000 - 8,000.
Ex: Superior Auction October 1995 Lot 891.
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| Realized $12,650 |
