Prooflike US Type Set
H10C CAPPED BUST (1829-1837)

Owner Comments:

Total Graded: 5876
Total Prooflike: 35
Percentage: 0.5956%

A brief perusal of a major sale containing a number of half dimes shows several which are often described as “prooflike” or with “prooflike characteristics.” Rarely are these fully prooflike however, usually only showing shallow mirrors or patches of reflectivity. These coins don’t have the deep, reflective mirrored surfaces required for a coin to be called fully prooflike. Half dimes, however, are among the most common early coins in prooflike condition, with a full 35 coins so certified in this short series.

The coin I have added to my collection is a stunning example, with deep mirrors and a razor sharp strike. This coin is in magnificent condition, with few marks of note anywhere on the surface. The coin is further graced by attractive blue toning on both sides, which tends to mute the obverse mirrors some but not much. The obverse mirrors are somewhat shallower than the reverse, but that is only because the reverse mirror is fantastically strong. The mirrors appear to be formed due to die polishing, which is evidenced by polish lines on both sides of the coin. Minor ghosting in front of Liberty’s face and under the eagle’s wing is the only impediments to the mirrors. This effect seems to be fairly common on PL Bust coinage, for some reason. This coin is definitely a keeper.