1877 50C J-1521, RB PR(PCGS#71859)

The March 2012 Baltimore Auction

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

4224

Grade

PR63

Price

13,800

Lot Description

1877 Pattern Morgan Half Dollar. Judd-1521, Pollock-1685. Rarity-7+. Copper. Reeded Edge. Proof-63 RB (PCGS). Obverse designs include Morgan's famed Liberty Head facing left as adopted on the larger format silver dollar the following year, surrounded by a beaded circle with E PLURIBUS UNUM and date surrounding, between which are 13 six pointed stars. Reverse with a finely detailed eagle, perched clutching branch and arrows, facing left, placed over a shield. Surrounding the shield is a fine border with the Motto, and an open laurel wreath. Legends and the denomination surround.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Pleasing faded red to tan spans the surfaces, with traces of blue iridescence. The surfaces have no detracting spots although a couple of minute flecks of carbon can be found with effort. Reasonably sharp although trace softness in the striking is found on the eagle's breast and thighs on the uppermost portions of his plumage.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The combined PCGS and NGC data records four grading events, possibly involving duplication, perhaps not. All are rare and desirable, and this is a seldom seen issue with such a tiny number known today. This pattern design by Morgan shows a more delicate and artistic hand while the competing designs by Barber (J-1514 to 1527) evoke a more ponderous rendering of similar devices.<br /> <br /> <strong>Numismatic Reflections by Q. David Bowers</strong><br /> A marvelous example of one of Morgan&rsquo;s 1877 pattern half dollars, a worthy companion to the others from this magic date offered in the present sale.&nbsp;