Owner Comments:
1859 50C
Judd- 248, Pollock-287
Rarity: High R.7, PF66+ BN CAC endorsed
Ex: Simpson.
Struck in copper with a reeded edge.
Obverse: The Paquet Liberty Seated With Fasces with the homely & disproportionate Liberty seated on a rock, shield at her lowered right (facing) hand and holding the top of a fasces in her left hand. An olive branch and three arrowheads lie awkwardly under the shield. Thirteen stars encircle the rim.
Reverse: The familiar Cereal Wreath design composed of cotton, tobacco, corn, sugar cane, wheat, and oak. with denomination HALF DOLLAR in the center.
As on the previous silver piece extensive die rust pitting is observe around the reverse periphery confirming this coin as a restrike from the 1870s, at which time they were made expressly for sale to contemporary collectors.
One of fewer than a half dozen pieces extant, per USPatterns.com. Flashy ice-blue and rose patina complements glossy deep brown surfaces. A pristine example.
Provenance:
Bob Simpson Part 3 2021 January 20 - 24 FUN US Auction / Lot #3083; Prior Heritage Aug 19 1995 American Numismatic Association Sale / Lot #8217 ($6270)
Plate Coin on PCGS Coinfacts for J248 RB