Lot 713
1844-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Double date. PCGS graded EF-45. This is simply a splendid example of this immensely popular Mint error. The double date feature is one of the most dramatic recuttings seen, and this is a clear statement of upheaval at the Mint. Breen speculates that the series of mispunched dates that began in 1844 was a direct result of the power struggles within the Philadelphia Mint. Longacre got himself appointed the Mint Engraver by Senator John C. Calhoun. Mint insiders were outraged, and Breen speculates that either Longacre was forced to punch in the dates in the dies or the Mint employees did their best to make "mistakes" such as this obviously mispunched date. Perhaps such "mistakes" were to get rid of Longacre, or Longacre's own disgust at having to do the menial task of engraving dates on dies, something that should be beneath the Mint Engraver.
Whatever the cause, this is a superb coin that will excite even the most advanced collector. The surfaces are pearl gray with minor handling marks and lines in the fields. Well struck, and the overdate feature is bold. Listed for decades in the Red Book, and always in feverish demand. PCGS lists just 5 graded this high, with 2 graded AU-50 above, and 2 graded in mint state. Precious few to go around! Don't miss this coin if you've been searching for a high grade, lightly circulated example.
Estimated Value $1,800 - 2,000.
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| Realized $2,760 |
