(1796) 1/2C Edwards Copy, BN

The 1796 1/2C Edwards Copy is an intriguing piece in the realm of early American numismatics. Known for its unique folkloric and historic standing, this coin is a private issue and not produced by the U.S. Mint. While it is labeled as an "Edwards Copy," it is a part of a collection of pieces that have fascinated collectors with their atypical origin.

Mint and Mintage Information: The coin was not struck at an official government mint; it is a private issue. Thus, official mintage records do not exist. However, these pieces are believed to have been produced in very limited quantities, contributing to their rarity today.

PCGS Details: PCGS Number: PCGS hasn't assigned a typical number for this piece due to its status as a copy, replicating the design of early U.S. half cents.

Rarity and Market Value: Given its unofficial minting and small numbers, the 1796 1/2C Edwards Copy is considered rare. Its market value can vary significantly, reflecting its historical significance and condition. These coins are desirable in numismatics circles due to their rarity and the curiosity surrounding their creation. Sales data for such coins is scarce, but when they do appear at auction, they understandably achieve a considerable premium. For instance, previous sales have ranged broadly, with entries occasionally appearing at auction houses. At these sales, prices can exceed several hundred dollars, with some well-preserved examples fetching much more, often several thousand dollars. It is crucial for collectors to pay attention to specific auction results to gauge current market interest accurately. 

Historical Context: From a numismatist's perspective, the Edwards Copy coins are a window into the early enthusiasm for American numismatics and the production of replicas to cater to collectors who desired rare designs that were otherwise inaccessible or unaffordable. These copies were often different from outright forgeries because they were usually struck with considerable skill and later acknowledged as replicas.

Collector's Interest: Collectors often see these coins as testaments to the evolving field of numismatics during a time when collecting was becoming a more popular hobby across America. The 1796 half cents were among the early issues of the United States, and their replicas offer another layer of understanding regarding collectors’ interest in past coinage. Though not officially struck by the U.S. Mint, the Edwards Copy 1/2C represents a piece of numismatic folklore that bridges historical intrigue with collecting passion, maintaining its place in the lexicon of collectible coins. As such, they hold a particular allure for those focused on American coinage history, expanding their historical insights into the coin collecting movement of the 19th and early 20th centuries.