1831 1/2C, BN MS(PCGS#1156)

Internet Auction #1122

Auctioneer

David Lawrence RC

Lot Number

719

Grade

AU50BN

Price

43,000

Lot Description

An enigmatic rarity, this offering presents a unique opportunity for the advanced collector. The 1831 Half Cent has long been a source of great debate in the numismatic community. Some describe it as a Proof-only date, while others (including Breen and Cohen) claim that some 1831 Half Cents were released into circulation. Mint reports show a production of 2,200 1831 Half Cents. However, records from this period are known to be incorrect, with mintages often reported in the wrong year. Approximately 30 coins are believed to have survived (including proofs) of all grades. This is the only issue of the Proof Half Cents with this kind of debate, making it a unique offering in the series.The coin displays attractive medium-brown color with patches of deeper charcoal tones. Boldly detailed with minimal wear and no real distractions, though some verdigris is noted in the protected areas of the reverse. An impressively preserved example of this scarce, numismatic phenomenon with excellent eye appeal for the grade.