1831 1/2C 1st Restrike, Rev of 1836, BN PR(PCGS#1189)

1831 1/2C 1st Restrike, Rev of 1836, BN PR (PCGS#1189)

The May 2013 ANA National Money Show

Lot Description: 1831 Classic Half Cent. B-2. Rarity-6-. First Restrike, Reverse of 1836. Proof-67 BN (PCGS). This specimen of a prominent half cent rarity happens to be the only Proof-67 half cent of the 1831-1836 type certified by PCGS within any color designation, with no other Proof 1831 half cents listed that match or exceed the given grade. The deep golden-brown surfaces are alive with neon blue and soft sea-green iridescence, especially when viewed in a bright light source. Low magnification reveals a strike so sharp it appears to be carved by a master hand from a copper blank, with all of the tiniest details absolutely bold, even to the unaided eye. We also note two tiny toning flecks at the N of UNITED on the reverse. The 1831 half cent was struck on the order of 2,200 pieces for intended circulation according to the Guide Book, and circulated examples of the date are of the greatest rarity today. The Proof restrikes of the date are thought to have been made to satisfy collector needs circa 1858-1859. It is thought that just 30 or so 1831 Proof half cents can be found today, and it is nice to think the present Gem is one of the finest extant examples of the issue. We can sense the specialists now formulating their bidding strategy for this important half cent.