1838 50c PR

Designer: Christian Gobrecht, modifying John Reich’s design. Weight: 13.36 grams. Composition: .900 silver, .100 copper. Diameter: 30 mm. Edge: Reeded. Mint: Philadelphia.

Key to Collecting: As a class, half dollars of the type with obverse as above, but with restyled reverse, are scarcer in high grades than of the previous type, although the mintages of the new type were higher. Often there is no accounting for what seems to be logic! Specimens are available in just about any grade desired, VF upwards, and in circulated pieces, usually dated 1838, the largest mintage of this short-lived type. Choice and gem pieces are in the distinct minority. The ever-popular 1839-O with obverse mintmark is a possibility for a type set, but is more expensive than, say, a Philadelphia issue of 1838 or 1839. Select with care.

Aspects of Striking and Appearance: Generally the striking of this type is better than on that of the 1836 and 1837 Reeded Edge style, but still care is needed. Check the obverse hair details, stars, and denticles, and on the reverse, the eagle and denticles.

Proof Coins: A few exist, but for all practical purposes they are unobtainable. The 1838-O rarity is generally seen in Proof format.