Breen-2, High R-5. First Restrike Small Berries.

The 1852 half cent is a proof-only issue which is known for Original and Restrike coins. The former are exceedingly rare while the latter are more available than most Proofs of this denomination. The reverse employed to strike these is the same as found on 1856-1857 half cents which immediately serves to identify when these were made. There are probably 50 or so known with most grading PR63 to PR64 and nearly all have no trace of original mint red.

This borderline Gem shows rich mahogany brown color with a splash of golden tan at the final star on the obverse. The surfaces are free of significant spots and show a good deal of reflection. The overall “look” of this coin is exceptional and I have seen 1852 half cents graded PR65 and PR66 which didn’t have the eye appeal which this piece displays in spades.

There have been just three appearance at auction for this issue since the end of 2006.

All Proof half cents are extremely undervalued and after the Missouri Cabinet is sold at auction in the Winter of 2014, it is likely that prices will increase for coins such as this.

CAC has approved just this one coin in PR64 (or PR64+) with six finer.