IN GOD WE TRUST
J-278
Copper Motto In scroll
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Coin Details
| Origin/Country: |
United States |
| Design Description: |
PATTERNS & TRIAL COINS 1792-1863 |
| Item Description: |
50C 1861 J-278 |
| Full Grade: |
PCGS PF 64 Red Brown |
| Owner: |
mania |
Owner Comments:
1861 P50C Half Dollar,
udd-278, Pollock-329
Rarity: Low R.7 PR64+ RB
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge
Obverse: The same design that the Mint used to produce regular issue 1861 Liberty Seated half dollars. The date is set left in the exergue with the shield point nearer the 8 in the date -- Pollock left this number available in case such a coin was found as this one.
Reverse: Similar to the regular issue design, but with the addition of a scroll with the motto GOD OUR TRUST in the field above the eagle within a scroll.
Comment: James Longacre applied the GOD OUR TRUST motto on these and other patterns for its brevity and clarity as an "expression of National reliance upon Divine support" -- one that could fit in the field above the eagle while remaining legible and unobtrusive. Abundant fiery mint-red color appears throughout this near-Gem, though most of the coin is deep brown. A flashy proof and one of some significance.
Provenance:
Ex: Bob Simpson, Heritage Nov 2020 US Signature Auction / Lot #3122
Plate coin for PCGS Coinfacts for type J278 RB