Owner Comments:
1859 P50C Half Dollar,
Judd-242, Pollock-298,
Rarity: R.5, PR64RB
Ex Simpson
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 large agricultural wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat, and oak leaves.
Comment:
These 1859 busts are often credited to Chief Engraver Longacre though the narrow lettering style of the legends is associated with Anthony Paquet. Its apparent inspiration was the Neoclassical statue of the Apollo Belvedere, but the "French Head" label remains a mystery.
Vivid shades of pale jade, lavender, and russet patina blankets the well-preserved surfaces of this attractive Choice proof, with sharply detailed design elements underneath. Some minor carbon specks are evident on the obverse.
Provenance/Appearances:
From The Atherton Collection of U.S. Pattern Coins, Heritage May 2023 CSNS Signature® Auction / Lot #4924 , Prior Ex: Important Selections from The Bob R. Simpson Collection, Part IV (Heritage, 2/2021), lot 3150.