Judd-73, R-5. Around three two to three dozen are known.

While designated as an Original by PCGS, the two massive die cracks on the reverse suggest that this piece is actually a restrike. It is not known exactly when these were made but as this piece shows no die rust, it may have been struck as soon as the early 1840’s.

This piece is a beautiful gem with claims to the superb category. It shows wonderful deep natural toning over reflective, hairline-free surfaces. Some weakness at the central reverse is attributable to the design which places the high spots on both sides opposite each other.

No PCGS PR65 example of this pattern has sold at auction since Bowers and Merena: 1045 sold for $11,550. Going back a few years before this, another PCGS PR65 sold for $14,300 in March 1990. And an NGC PR67 just sold for $44,650 as Heritage 4/15: 5528.

I don’t generally handle Patterns but I love this early silver half dollar and think it is exceptional value at its current levels.

CAC has approved two in this grade with none finer.