Breen 1-B, (R-6). Small Date; First Restrike with reverse of 1856.

It is not known how many Proofs were struck this year; it is probable that 18-22 are known with most in the PR63 to PR64 range. The majority of Proof Restrike half cents dated 1849 do not show much–if any mint red–although a few nice Red and Brown pieces are known. Gem Brown pieces are very rare.

This medium brown example shows some light natural mottling of the color with some faint autumn leaves undertones on the obverse; the reverse tends more to a steel hue. The surfaces are reflective and free of spotting save for one on the neck of Liberty. Most importantly, this piece has superb eye appeal and hasn’t been cleaned or “improved” as have so many Proofs of this era.

The Missouri Collection: 194 example, graded PR66 RB by PCGS and approved by CAC, is likely the finest known and it sold for a healthy $66,125. The Missouri: 193 coin, graded PR64RB by PCGS and also approved by CAC, realized $17,825.

No PCGS PR65 Brown 1849 Restrike half cent has sold at auction and the last NGC example to be offered was sold all the way back in July 2008.

If you collect Proof half cents by date, you will not have many more chances to acquire a PCGS graded Gem 1849!

CAC has approved this one coin in PR65BR with none finer.