1836 50C GR-1 Reeded Edge MS(PCGS#531046)

June 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2136

Grade

AU58

Price

5,520

Lot Description

The first half dollars struck using a reeded edge had a limited mintage; the oft cited number of 1,200 reported by Walter Breen is clearly too low, and research by scholar Robert W. Julian suggests that the number was likely closer to 5,000, making it one of the lowest in the entire history of the half dollar denomination. This is a handsome, near-Mint State example with a trivial trace of friction on both sides, the result of a very brief stint in commercial channels before being saved by some old time collector. Powder blue and antique gold undertones backlight dominant patina in warm lavender-gray. A touch of glossiness to the texture is noted for accuracy, but the few marks that are present generally require magnification to discern. This is a desirable example for both first year of issue collectors and those numismatists working on a set of Capped Bust half dollars.