Patterns - Lots 1144-1176
The Harry W. Bass, Jr. Collection - Part I
Patterns - Lots 1144-1176
Gobrecht's 1838 Pattern Half Dollar
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1144 1838 pattern half dollar. P-75, J-72. Rarity-5. Gobrecht's Liberty obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: Draped bust of Liberty faces left, no doubt by Gobrecht, but popularly attributed to Kneass. Thirteen stars are arranged with seven left and six right. The date, 1838, is below. Liberty is wearing a diadem and her hair ribbon is inscribed LIBERTY. This die is historically attributed to William Kneass, however, he was not an active engraver at the time the originals were produced.
Reverse Design: An eagle with wings spread, its head turned to the viewer's right. An olive branch and four arrows are held by the talons. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: An attractive cameo Proof with faint gold toning and only a few very minor impairments.
Narrative: This example does not exactly fit the criteria outlined by Andrew Pollock for the restrikes, however, it is certainly not an original example which would have a weight in the range of 206 grains. The central design is fully defined while there is no evidence of severe die rust.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 194.1 grains. Diameter: 30.1 mm. Die alignment: 360°.
Purchased from William A. Mitkoff, April 16, 1972.
Important 1838 P-77 Half Dollar
From the Garrett Collection
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1145 1838 pattern half dollar. P-77, J-73 Restrike. Rarity-5. Gobrecht's Liberty obverse. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: A flying eagle in a plain field, facing left. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around from 8:30 to 3:30, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: Attractively toned, the reverse with traces of mottled blue and amber. The outer obverse edge is slightly rounded.
Narrative: Is this an original or a restrike? In United States Patterns and Related Issues, Andrew Pollock describes this as an "anomalous weight issue" and separates such coins from those specifically identified as Originals or Restrikes.
While cataloguing the present coin for the Garrett Collection, Dave Bowers provided a thought-provoking discussion: "143 reeds on edge, signifying (in accordance with the description in the Judd reference) that it is an original, as opposed to a restrike which is identifiable by severely cracked reverse dies and 152 reeds on the edge. Complicating the attribution is the fact that the dies are rotated 180° [sic] , which Judd notes as being a characteristic of the restrike, but he does not preclude the possibility of originals also having this characteristic. Sharply struck on the hair and the ear (a quality which Judd attributes to originals), but weakly struck on the eagle's left wing, a quality attributed to restrikes. Originals may be from perfect dies or from slightly cracked dies. The present example has a very fine, almost microscopic, die crack but it is entirely unlike the massive crack seen on the restrikes (refer to the Judd plate coin). The weight-197 grains-is heavier than the 192-grain standard in effect during the period of restriking activity, 1858-1860, but is lighter than the standard in effect in 1838 which would have been 206.25 grains. Considering all of these facts, is this an original or restrike? The answer will probably never be known with any certainty. The writer tends to believe it is a restrike, perhaps one produced very early during the 1858-1860 period."
Technical Aspects: Weight: 197.5 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 360°. Die notes: Radial die cracks on the reverse from the border at 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 all meet in the center of the eagle.
Harry W. Bass, Jr. notes: Kneass. Dies upset. 143 reeds. OBV: No bust rust. REV: no rust. Faint crack.
From our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 28, 1979, Lot 363.
Very Curious 1838/1859 P-81 50¢
Obverse Dated 1838, Reverse Made in 1859
1146 1838 pattern half dollar. P-81, J-255. Rarity-8. Gobrecht's Liberty obverse. Proof-62 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: Kneass obverse of 1838. As preceding.
Reverse Design: Paquet reverse of 1858-1859. A die from 1859, with an eagle with shield on its breast. A scroll is draped across the shield and is inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. An olive branch and three arrows are held in the talons. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is above, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below. The reverse die was engraved by Anthony Paquet and features his distinctive letter punches.
Surfaces: Cleaned in the past with bright orange surfaces and traces of light blue toning. Very poorly struck with the bottom portion of the obverse extremely weak.
Narrative: There is no doubt that this is a restrike. The reverse is distinctive and attributed to Paquet, as noted above. This is a very curious, very fascinating coin-a "story coin" that will be a showpiece in the collection of its next owner.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.4 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Light obverse die rust and severe reverse die rust.
Purchased from Stewart P. Witham, August 12, 1981. Previously from Auction '81, Lot 322. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 27. Probably from Farouk. For some reason, Judd ignored the date on this coin and listed it under 1859.
Gem 1838 Liberty Seated 50¢
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1147 1838 pattern half dollar. P-82, J-76a. Restrike. Rarity-7+. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: A full figure of Liberty is seated to the right, her head turned over her right shoulder, to the viewer's left. She is sitting on a rock and her right had supports a shield with incuse letters LIBERTY. Her left hand supports a pole with Liberty cap. Around, 13 stars, with the date, 1838, below. This is very similar to the adopted Liberty Seated design without drapery at Liberty's elbow, however, there are very minor positional differences.
Reverse Design: An eagle with wings spread, its head turned, to the viewer's right. An olive branch and four arrows are held by the talons. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: An attractive Proof example with pale russet and blue obverse toning, which subdues the reflective surface. The reverse is mottled russet and blue with deeper mirrored fields. Quite sharply struck although some central weakness is noted.
Narrative: This is a restrike, produced in the 1870s, according to Saul Teichman. Andrew Pollock mentioned varieties with straight date and curved date, noting he was unable to distinguish between the two. Saul Teichman, on the other hand, suggests that the curved date, with raised letters in LIBERTY, is the original issue, while the variety with straight date, which has incused letters in LIBERTY as offered here, is the restrike.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 360°.
Harry W. Bass, Jr. notes: Dies upset.
From our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 28, 1979, Lot 364. Previously from Édouard Frossard, May 6, 1882.
1838 Liberty Seated Half Dollar
1148 1838 pattern half dollar. P-84, J-78. Restrike. Rarity-7+. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-65 BN (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: An exquisite, sharply struck gem with light brown accented by vivid blue. Traces of mint red adhere to the borders and around certain devices.
Narrative: Just four examples are currently confirmed. In addition to this example, others include coins in the Connecticut State Library and Western Heritage Museum, along with an example that appeared in Auction '81, reappearing in our August 1998 Rarities sale as part of the Morris Evans Collection, Lot 2034. A gorgeous showpiece.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 174.6 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Light die rust is present on the reverse.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974.
1838 Pattern Half Dollar
Liberty Seated Obverse
1149 1838 pattern half dollar. P-86, J-79a. Rarity-7. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-62 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: A flying eagle in a plain field, facing left. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around from 8:30 to 3:30, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: A brilliant silvery white Proof with light gold toning about the periphery. An attractive light cameo with minor hairlines and other abrasions.
Narrative: This is an original striking on a planchet of proper weight. This is effectively a miniature Gobrecht dollar. A remarkable opportunity to acquire a most important and interesting half dollar pattern.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 206.1 grains. Diameter: 30.4 mm. Die alignment: 360°. Die notes: Two die cracks are visible on the reverse. The first begins at the border over the first A in AMERICA and continues through these letters to the pellet between the legend and denomination, finally reaching the A in DOLLAR. The second crack begins at the right base of F in HALF and continues through the tops of DOLLAR. Small patches of die lines join the eagle's right wing and tail, with others at the junction of the eagle's left wing and neck. Very similar die state to the example offered in our August 1998 sale of the Morris Evans Collection, Lot 2035.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974.
Important 1838 Pattern 50¢
Liberty Seated Design
1150 1838 pattern half dollar. P-87, J-80. Restrike. Rarity-7. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: An eagle flying upward to the left, wings spread, an olive branch and arrows grasped in its claws. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around with the denomination, HALF DOL., below. The lower right curve of O in DOL. is very slightly doubled.
Surfaces: Sharp peripheral details with considerable weakness at the centers of both the obverse and reverse. Deeply toned, yet still attractive. Light amber is blended with bluish green. Minor surface blemishes are noted.
Narrative: Saul Teichman notes that originals were never issued, and the die was probably not created or finished until sometime between 1858 and 1867. All examples seen to date weigh approximately 192 grains, the post February 1853 weight standard.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974.
1838 Liberty Seated 50¢
Flying Eagle Reverse
1151 1838 pattern half dollar. P-88, J-81. Restrike. Rarity-7. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding. A very large center dot is noted within the eagle's left wing. This center dot is just shy of a full millimeter in diameter.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with slight weakness at the centers, however, much sharper than seen on the previous lot. Deeply mirrored fields and light cameo devices are toned vivid blue and amber, with splashes of mint red at the borders and around various design elements.
Narrative: From the same reverse die as the preceding, with the lower right curve of O in DOL. slightly doubled.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 186.0 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974.
1838 Liberty Seated Half Dollar
Impressive Pedigree
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1152 1838 pattern half dollar. P-90, J-82. Restrike. Rarity-8. Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: Similar to the preceding, except the letters LIBERTY are raised on the shield.
Reverse Design: The adopted design used for regular-issue half dollars of 1837.
Surfaces: A lightly toned Proof with brilliantly reflective fields displaying light blue and russet peripheral toning. Very minor hairlines are visible. Sharply struck and attractive.
Narrative: Just two or three are known to exist, thus the present offering is an extremely important opportunity. The Farouk Collection coin, which later appeared in Lester Merkin's sale of February 1971, may be the same as the example offered by Abe Kosoff in his 1962 Illustrated History offering of the Judd Collection.
Pattern half dollars dated 1838 and 1839 have always been of special interest and importance. The Bass Collection offering is one of the most extensive in numismatic history.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 206.1 grains. Diameter: 30.2 mm. Die alignment: 355 .
From RARCOA's Auction '81, Lot 321. Previously from Mickley, Cohen, Parmelee, William H. Woodin, F.C.C. Boyd, according to the Auction '81 catalogue. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 32.
1839 "Backward Head" 50¢
Gobrecht's Perched Eagle
Restrike with Rusted Reverse
1153 1839 pattern half dollar. P-103, J-95. Restrike. Rarity-8. Liberty Head right. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: The popular "Backward Head" of Liberty, facing right. Her hair is knotted in a bun and she is wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Thirteen stars are arranged in an arc around, with the date, 1839, below.
Reverse Design: An eagle with outstretched wings and a shield on its breast. The head is turned over its right shoulder, to the viewer's left. An olive branch and three arrows are in the grasp of the eagle's claws. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOL., below.
Surfaces: Reflective pewter gray obverse featuring very pale blue toning. The reverse has deeper mirrored fields with brilliant silvery lustre and a splash of vivid blue at the upper border. Sharply struck with superb aesthetic appeal. A prominent knife edge is noted along the reverse border from 4:00 to 7:00.
Narrative: The weight and die state of this example suggest that it is a restrike, possibly struck circa 1858 or perhaps later.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Minute dots of die rust are noted on the obverse as well as the reverse.
From RARCOA's Auction '81, Lot 325. Previously from Édouard Frossard; Garrett Collection, Bowers and Ruddy, November 1979, Lot 366. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 37.
1839 "Backward Head" 50¢
P-104, Copper Restrike
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1154 1839 pattern half dollar. P-104, J-96. Restrike. Rarity-8. Liberty Head right. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Deep brown mirrored fields with cameo devices, accented by pale blue and light amber toning. A sharply struck example with every detail crisp and clear.
Narrative: This is likely a restrike, as it has a similar die state to the previous lot, which we know to be a restrike based upon the weight. As there is no weight standard for copper half dollar patterns, it is much more difficult to determine if a particular example is an original, from the standard weight of the era, or a restrike with a reduced weight. Die state necessarily becomes the determining factor.
Perhaps there is a weight standard for restrike half dollars in copper. Among the extensive series of 1859 pattern half dollars, numerous examples are known in copper. In the course of his research, Andrew Pollock recorded weights for 28 different examples. We have determined that the average of all these weights is 171.3 grains. Perhaps this can be considered a weight standard for post-1853 copper pattern half dollars. Further, the recorded weights of copper half dollar patterns dated 1838 and 1839 include two ranges for weight. A number of these patterns have weights between 170.9 and 178.9 grains, with an average of 174.3 grains. A second group have weights between 181.0 and 191.5 grains, with an average of 185.4 grains.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 173.1 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 175 . Die notes: Light die rust on both surfaces, as noted for the previous lot.
Purchased from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974.
1839 "Backward Head" 50¢
Reverse with Large Letters
P-107, Silver Restrike
1155 1839 pattern half dollar. P-107, J-97 Restrike. Rarity-7. Liberty Head right. Proof-62 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, with larger letters in the legend and denomination.
Surfaces: A sharply struck example of this interesting design. The obverse is deeply reflective with cameo devices and bright silver surfaces. The reverse is similar, however, subdued by rose and bluish green toning. Numerous light hairlines are present.
Narrative: Just a handful of examples are known, several of which have not been seen on the market for years. In his reference, Andrew Pollock notes seven or eight different coins. Included among these are the Dupont coin, an example sold by Stack's in the 1976 ANA sale, the Auction '81 example that we recently sold as part of our Morris Evans Collection, the Judd coin offered by Abe Kosoff in his 1962 Illustrated History, the Farouk Collection coin, the example in the Smithsonian Institution, the Lemus Collection example, and the present offering. The Lemus Collection coin and the present Bass Collection example may be reappearances of those mentioned above.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.7 grains. Diameter: 30.7 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974.
1839 "Backward Head" 50¢
P-108, Copper
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1156 1839 pattern half dollar. P-108, J-98. Restrike. Rarity-8. Liberty Head right. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Attractively toned bright green with splashes of orange and amber. Very sharply struck with moderately deep mirrored fields.
Narrative: A restrike produced in the 1870s, according to Saul Teichman. He asks if anyone has been able to match the reverse to a regular-issue Proof half dollar. We would be interested in passing on such information should a patient collector wish to accept this challenge.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 171.0 grains. Diameter: 30.7 mm. Die alignment: 175°. Die notes: Faint traces of die rust are visible.
Purchased from Julian Leidman, July 28, 1972.
1839 Capped Bust 50¢
Upright Eagle Reverse
P-109, Silver Restrike
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1157 1839 pattern half dollar. P-109, J-99. Restrike. Rarity-8. Capped Bust. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: The adopted type used for the regular-issue Capped Bust half dollars of 1836 through 1839.
Reverse Design: An eagle with wings spread, its head turned to the viewer's right. An olive branch and four arrows are held by the talons. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: Pale gold toning on the obverse over lightly mirrored fields and exceptional design definition. The reverse has more deeply reflective fields with exquisite lilac and blue toning.
Narrative: Based on the weight listed below, and the die state, this is apparently a restrike, probably struck circa 1858 or possibly later. Although three are listed by Andrew Pollock, this and the Lemus Collection coin are possibly the only two known, if the Lemus coin is also the Judd plate coin, as suggested by Saul Teichman. Another incredible opportunity for the connoisseur and specialist.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.2 grains. Diameter: 30.1 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Extensive rust marks are visible on the obverse and reverse.
From our sale of the Garrett Collection, Part I, November 28, 1979, Lot 367. From the Édouard Frossard Collection.
1839 Liberty Seated 50¢
With Drapery at Elbow
Just Two Known
A Numismatic Showpiece
1158 1839 pattern half dollar. P-112, J-101. Restrike. Rarity-8. Liberty Seated with Drapery. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Plain edge.
Obverse Design: The adopted type for regular-issue half dollars of 1839, with drapery at Liberty's elbow.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: A sharply struck Proof with light cameo contrast. The obverse is deeply toned, primarily bluish green with splashes of rose. The reverse is predominantly brilliant with light bluish green at the border.
Narrative: Just two examples are known, according to Saul Teichman, both appearing in the sale of patterns from Linderman. The other known example recently appeared in David Akers' sale of the Pittman Collection, Lot 772. As this issue so closely approximates the regular design, it is of special importance.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 30.4 mm. Die alignment: 360°. Die notes: Extensive die rust is noted on both surfaces.
Harry W. Bass, Jr. notes: Dies upset. Ex Woodside, Gable, Newcomer? Two known.
Purchased from Numismatics, Ltd., August 12, 1974. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 43.
1839 Liberty Seated 50¢
Flying Eagle Reverse
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1159 1839 pattern half dollar. P-113, J-102 Restrike. Rarity-7. Liberty Seated with Drapery. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: A flying eagle in a plain field, facing left. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around from 8:30 to 3:30, the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below.
Surfaces: This lovely pattern half dollar is substantially nicer than it would appear at first glance. Extensive die rust has been reduced by severe lapping or polishing of the obverse die. A lovely cameo Proof with brilliant silver surfaces and lustrous devices.
Narrative: The extensive die cracks on the reverse, in addition to the weight, identify this as a restrike produced sometime in the period from 1858 to 1870. The exact date of production is unknown, of course, as the various Mint employees responsible for restriking the coinage did not wish to publish their activities. Both Dave Bowers and Saul Teichman believe that more restrikes and fancy pieces were made in the 1870s than are reflected in the literature. This pattern variety should be of interest as a peripheral item for the Gobrecht dollar specialist.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.7 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 360°. Die notes: Extensive die rust has been diminished by heavy obverse die polishing, leaving a myriad of tiny raised lines. Four very heavy reverse die cracks meet within the body of the eagle.
From Lester Merkin's sale of February 13, 1971, Lot 861. Previously from Brand, Dr. Judd, Illustrated History, Lot 122, 1966 ANA Sale. Illustrated in Judd.
1859 P-282 Pattern 50¢
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1160 1859 pattern half dollar. P-282, J-235. Rarity-6. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: Liberty is seated, facing left, her left hand supporting a shield, and her outstretched right hand holding a fasces. An olive sprig and three arrows are present at the base of the shield. Thirteen stars are around with the date, 1859, below. In the date, the digits 1 and 8 are recut.
Reverse Design: An eagle with outstretched wings, its head turned over its right shoulder, to the viewer's left. A shield is on the eagle's breast. The eagle has an olive branch and three long arrows in its claws with a ribbon in its beak, draped across the shield and inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below, both in Paquet's distinctive lettering.
Surfaces: Sharply struck except for weakness at the very top of Liberty's head. Brilliant ivory surfaces are lightly reflective with considerable satiny lustre present.
Narrative: In the date, the digits 1 and 8 are recut.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 190.3 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Abe Kosoff, August 3, 1971.
1859 P-284 Paquet Pattern 50¢
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1161 1859 pattern half dollar. P-284, J-235. Rarity-5. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-65 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, with the ribbon broken.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with brilliant mirrored fields and light gold toning. A superb example for the connoisseur. Considerably striated obverse.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.7 grains. Diameter: 30.7 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974.
1859 P-285 Pattern 50¢
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1162 1859 pattern half dollar. P-285, J-236. Rarity-7. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-64 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with lightly mirrored fields. Light tan with bluish brown toning. The obverse has a knife rim from 11:00 to 2:00.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 172.7 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from Brinton T. Schorer, May 3, 1973.
1859 Paquet Half Dollar
P-286, J-247
1163 1859 pattern half dollar. P-286, J-247. Rarity-7. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: An agricultural wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat, and oak leaves surrounds the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, in two lines.
Surfaces: Very faint golden rose toning is highlighted by splashes of blue. Average strike with some design elements weak.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: A few small patches of die rust are noted on the reverse.
Purchased from Abe Kosoff, August 19, 1972.
1859 P-288 Pattern 50¢
1164 1859 pattern half dollar. P-288, J-249. Rarity-7. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, except the denomination is expressed as 1/2 DOLLAR.
Surfaces: Lightly reflective surfaces with ivory toning. Sharply struck except for the top of the head, which is flat.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.2 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Extensive reverse die rust is present.
From Stack's Massachusetts Historical Society Sale, March 29, 1973, Lot 346. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 130.
1859 P-290 Pattern 50¢
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1165 1859 pattern half dollar. P-290, J-251. Rarity-7. Paquet's Liberty Seated obverse. Proof-62 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, except the denomination now reads 50 CENTS.
Surfaces: Brilliant reflective silver surfaces with sharp design details and very minimal surface marks. Diagonal reverse die striae tends to diminish the effects of the Proof surface.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: Extensive reverse die rust.
Purchased from Abe Kosoff, August 3, 1971. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 131.
1859 P-293 Pattern 50¢
French Liberty Head
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1166 1859 pattern half dollar. P-293, J-237. Rarity-4. French Liberty Head. Proof-62 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: James B. Longacre's "French Liberty Head," this name borrowed from 19th-century coin auction catalogues. A bust of Liberty faces right with a wreath of oak leaves and vines on her head. A ribbon is draped across her shoulder and inscribed LIBERTY. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around with the date, 1859, below.
Reverse Design: An agricultural wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat, and oak leaves surrounds the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, in two lines.
Surfaces: Lightly reflective Proof surfaces with pewter obverse and light gold reverse. Sharply struck with a few scattered surface marks and minor hairlines.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.6 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
From Stack's ANA Sale, August 11, 1971, Lot 446. Previously from Stack's David Golding Sale, June 1952, Lot 8.
1859 P-296 Paquet 50¢
Struck in Copper
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1167 1859 pattern half dollar. P-296, J-240. Rarity-5. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 RB (PCGS). Copper. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Agricultural wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat, and oak leaves. The denomination is expressed as 1/2 DOLLAR.
Surfaces: A lovely example of this design with deep orange highlighted by vivid blue. Very sharply struck and quite desirable.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 170.4 grains. Diameter: 30.4 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
From Stack's ANA Sale, August 11, 1971, Lot 449. Previously from Stack's David-Graves Sale, Part II, May 1954, Lot 981.
Intriguing 1859 Pattern Half Dollar
Mysterious Counterstamped Edge
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1168 1859 pattern half dollar. P-296, J-240. Rarity-5. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). Copper. Plain edge. The edge has the letter H counterstamped 16 times.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Lightly reflective olive surfaces with tan and gold toning. A highly attractive example with sharp design details.
Narrative: The plain edge of this pattern has been counterstamped, 16 times, with the letter "H" in a square logotype punch. The punch indented the letter into the edge, yet the letter itself is raised, in a hallmark fashion. There has been no comment in past literature as to the reason or nature of this edge variation. Each of the 16 counterstamps was placed on the edge individually. Interestingly, an example of this same die marriage with reeded edge and similar counterstamps was offered by us in November 1985, Lot 1040. At the time, the pedigree of the two coins was confused and it was believed that only one example was known. The same confusion carried through to Andrew Pollock's reference on pattern coinage. It is interesting that the very obvious edge differences (this has plain edge, the other reeded) have not previously been noted.
The presently offered example is the Garrett Collection coin; records kept by Harry Bass indicate that he purchased this coin from that sale in 1976. With the existence of two such pieces, one with the standard reeded edge, the other with an unrecorded plain edge, we submit that the counterstamping was done in the Mint at the time of striking. The other example, which appeared in our sale of coins from the Kosoff estate in 1985, was probably the coin mentioned in the Parmelee Collection sale of 1890: "16 H's stamped in milling on edge."
The counterstamps form a type of privy mark, however, we cannot come to any conclusion as to the purpose. This situation provides an interesting numismatic mystery, similar to the mysterious counterstamps which appear on certain Capped Bust quarter dollars from 1815 to 1825. The actual letter "H" on each of the 16 counterstamps is 0.9 millimeters high. There appears to be 4.0 to 4.5 millimeters space between each punch and each punch is 1.5 millimeters wide.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 166.0 grains. Diameter: 30.3 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
This coin has been graded by PCGS, however, not encapsulated due to the unique nature of the edge, otherwise this all-important feature could not be seen and enjoyed!
From Stack's sale of the Garrett Collection, March 12, 1976, Lot 622.
1859 P-297 Pattern Half Dollar
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1169 1859 pattern half dollar. P-297, J-241. Rarity-4. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, except the denomination is 50 CENTS.
Surfaces: Brilliant cameo Proof with deeply mirrored silver obverse, the reverse fields less reflective due to diagonal striae. A trace of faint blue highlights this gem.
Narrative: When offering the Morris Evans Collection example of this variety, we noted that while price paid is certainly important, opportunity can be equally if not more important. The present sale offers the opportunity to bid on many extreme rarities in the pattern series. Among the half dollar patterns of 1859, numerous varieties and interesting Mint products are offered, a truly remarkable opportunity for the collector.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.6 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from RARCOA, February 26, 1972.
1859 P-297 Pattern 50¢
Duplicate
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1170 1859 pattern half dollar. P-297, J-241. Rarity-4. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: A lovely brilliant cameo Proof with a few very faint impairments. Sharply struck with diagonal reverse die striae.
Narrative: Duplicate of the preceding.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.4 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from RARCOA, February 26, 1972.
1859 P-297 Pattern 50¢
Triplicate
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1171 1859 pattern half dollar. P-297, J-241. Rarity-4. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Another lovely cameo Proof example of this variety with sharp design details, deeply mirrored fields, and very minor surface marks.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.5 grains. Diameter: 30.7 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
From Stack's Massachusetts Historical Society Sale, March 29, 1973, Lot 340.
1172 1859 pattern half dollar. P-297, J-241. Rarity-4. French Liberty Head. Proof-62 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: As preceding.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with light russet and gold toning, sharp design details, and a moderate quotient of hairlines. Reverse die striae are noted. A quadruplicate and final specimen.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
Purchased from RARCOA, February 26, 1972.
1859 P-299 Half Dollar Rarity
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1173 1859 pattern half dollar. P-299, J-243. Rarity-7. French Liberty Head. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: The adopted design used on regular-issue half dollars.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with brilliantly mirrored fields and lustrous cameo devices. A few faint hairlines are present, consistent with the grade.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.9 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
From Superior's 1975 ANA Sale, August 21, 1975, Lot 1239. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 136.
1859 Longacre/Paquet 50¢
P-301, J-245
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1174 1859 pattern half dollar. P-301, J-245. Rarity-7. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: An eagle with outstretched wings, its head turned over its right shoulder, to the viewer's left. A shield is on the eagle's breast. The eagle has an olive branch and three long arrows in its claws with a ribbon in its beak, draped across the shield and inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM. The legend, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, is around, with the denomination, HALF DOLLAR, below, both in Paquet's distinctive lettering.
Surfaces: Sharply struck with light gold toning. A beautiful cameo Proof with the reverse mirrored fields subdued by diagonal striae.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 191.8 grains. Diameter: 30.6 mm. Die alignment: 180°.
From Stack's Massachusetts Historical Society Sale, March 29, 1973, Lot 343. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 137.
1859 P-303 Pattern 50¢
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1175 1859 pattern half dollar. P-303, J-245. Rarity-7. French Liberty Head. Proof-64 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: As preceding.
Reverse Design: Similar to the preceding, except the ribbon is broken.
Surfaces: A light cameo Proof with moderately reflective surfaces and minor hairlines. Sharply struck. The obverse has a knife rim from 11:00 to 2:00.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.2 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: The reverse exhibits heavy die rust.
Purchased from Douglas Weaver, January 21, 1974.
1861 P-330 Liberty Seated 50¢
GOD OUR TRUST Motto
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1176 1861 pattern half dollar. P-330, J-279. Rarity-7. Liberty Seated obverse, With Motto GOD OUR TRUST reverse. Proof-63 (PCGS). Silver. Reeded edge.
Obverse Design: Regular Liberty Seated motif used on half dollars of this year.
Reverse Design: Similar to the adopted design, with the addition of the motto, GOD OUR TRUST, in small letters in the field over the eagle.
Surfaces: Brilliant silvery white cameo Proof with a trace of rose toning. A very attractive example.
Narrative: Just four or five examples are known. Six appearances are listed by Andrew Pollock, although a few may be duplicates. This stimulated further study, and today, just five years later, an additional commentary can be made:
Pollock listed the following: 1. An example offered in Rare Coin Review issues 28 to 30. 2. The Lemus Collection coin, sold by us in our sale of the Einstein Collection, June 1986, Lot 2522. 3. The Judd plate coin. 4. The Boosel Collection coin, sold by RARCOA, April 1972, Lot 1023, earlier from the King Farouk Collection. 5. The present coin, sold by Julian Leidman to Harry Bass in July 1972. 6. An example in our sale of the River Oaks Collection, November 1976, Lot 970. From this listing, we surmise that six examples are known.
Further research shows that coins 1 and 2 are the same, and that this coin also appears to be the same as number 6, although the plate in the River Oaks catalogue is not clear enough to be completely certain. The coin we are offering today, number 5 above, may be the same as the Farouk-Boosel coin, however, that coin was not plated in either catalogue. Only the time of offering provides a possible clue. Perhaps Julian Leidman remembers if they are the same. The Judd plate coin is a further example. In addition to the above, an example appeared in Stack's March 1976 sale of the Garrett Collection, Lot 624, however, this coin was not plated. Another example appeared in our Eliasberg offering, May 1996, Lot 250, a coin which Mr. Eliasberg acquired from the Clapp Estate. In February 1997, Superior sold an additional example of this pattern variety.
No doubt with the Pollock work as a foundation, other scholars can add to various listings and also condense certain listings that appear. Unlike, for example, the field of United States copper cents 1793-1814, where pedigrees have been an art form for decades, Pollock's work was largely pioneering.
Regarding half dollars of 1861 with this experimental motto, as a class, they are considerably scarcer than those of the following year. As such, the presently offered coin will not only stand on its own as a rarity-perhaps even scarcer than Andrew Pollock noted-but, beyond that, it will furnish the opportunity to acquire an elusive 1861-dated appearance of IN GOD WE TRUST on half dollar coinage.
Technical Aspects: Weight: 192.0 grains. Diameter: 30.5 mm. Die alignment: 180°. Die notes: A tiny spot of die rust is in the reverse field, above HA of HALF.
Purchased from Julian Leidman, July 28, 1972. Illustrated in United States Patterns and Related Issues, by Andrew W. Pollock III, as figure 153.
