1804 1/2C Crosslet 4, No Stems, BN MS(PCGS#1072)

1804 1/2C Crosslet 4, No Stems, BN MS (PCGS#1072)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: A wonderfully original example of this distinct and readily attributable die marriage. Both sides exhibit dominant gray-brown patina, the reverse with considerable golden-copper toning and the obverse with faint remnants of faded pink luster around the devices. Surface texture is frosty and overall smooth with no singularly mentionable blemishes. A uniformly bold strike rounds out an impressive list of attributes for this Mint State type candidate.<p>The Cohen-12 variety was likely delivered on May 10, 1805, which would make it the final die pairing used to produce 1804-dated half cents. This variety, therefore, capped a mintage of approximately 1,275,000 pieces from 1804-dated dies, a record high for an issue of this denomination. With 12 die marriages confirmed, several with a host of fascinating die states, the 1804 half cent is fertile ground for variety collectors. Since several of the varieties are common, this issue is also popular with type collectors seeking a single example of the Draped Bust design. While the C-12 is not as common as the C-13 or C-10 in Mint State grades, it remains a popular choice for the latter purpose, especially since it is the only die pairing of the Crosslet 4, No Stems <em>Guide Book</em> variety.