Owner Comments:
1859 50C "French Head"
Judd- 242, Pollock-298
Rarity R4, PF62BN
Struck in copper with a reeded edge,
Obverse: Longacre's "French Head" Liberty faces right with a oaks and vine wreath in her hair. A ribbon below the bust is inscribed LIBERTY, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around, and the date below.
Reverse: The denomination "50 CENTS" within an agricultural wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat, and oak leaves.
Comment:
The wreath motif is identical, except for scale, as its counterparts on the issued 1860 half dime and dime.
Medium-brown surfaces show a few minor ticks consistent with the grade.
Provenance:
Heritage 2012 April 18-22 US Coins & Platinum Night CSNS Signature Auction- Schaumburg Lot #6262