1837 50C MS(PCGS#6176)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3280

Grade

MS64

Price

9,455

Lot Description

This delightfully original specimen displays attractive antique silver surfaces with ample highlights of rose, cobalt and gold iridescence scattered over both sides. Strong luster is readily apparent as the coin is rotated under a light. A thin die crack on the obverse below star one extends into the bust, up through Liberty's chin and cheek ending eventually at star 8. From the same starting point, another branch of the crack extends down through the drapery folds. Two more thin die cracks are noted on the reverse. The first starts at the rim below the letter U in UNITED and moves across the left wing, through two leaves and eventually down through the letter T in CENTS and to the rim. The second crack moves down from the rim through the letter A in STATES into the eagle's neck, right wing and ending at the letter E in AMERICA. These cracks identify the die pair as GR-5, which is known for excellent quality strikes and is often seen with the reverse rotated 30 degrees counterclockwise from normal coin alignment, both markers seen on the present example as well. At the MS-64 level, this coin is tied for finest of the variety, a position shared with three other coins according to the census compiled by Dick Graham in his 2012 reference. CAC approval only confirms the quality and excellent state of preservation.<p>This is a superior example of the Reeded Edge, 50 CENTS half dollar design type, produced only in 1836 and 1837. The reverse legend was changed to read HALF DOL. in 1838. The 1836 issue, once considered a pattern, is remarkably scarce, directing considerable demand to the coins of 1837 to serve as type pieces. That offered here is a stunning example destined for a high quality type collection or specialized set by Graham variety.