1802/0 1/2C Reverse of 1800, BN

The 1802/0 1/2C Reverse of 1800 is a fascinating and highly sought-after coin in the early American numismatic community. This particular half cent is an overdate error coin, where the original die intended for the year 1800 was repurposed for 1802, marking a notable aspect of early U.S. Mint practices and the resource-constrained environment of the mint at that time. ### Mint and Mintage Details - **Mint Location:** Philadelphia (no mintmark) - **Year:** 1802, overdate on 1800 - **Total Mintage:** Unknown, but estimated to be in the lower thousands due to minimal survival rates and known dies. The rarity of the 1802/0 1/2C with the Reverse of 1800 lies partly in its age, partially in its interesting minting error, and partly in its scarcity. The surviving population of these coins exists in limited quantities, enhancing their desirability among collectors. ### PCGS Coin Facts - **PCGS Coin Number:** 1055 ### Historical and Numismatic Context In the early 19th century, the production of coins at the Philadelphia Mint was characterized by the frequent reuse of old dies, a practice that has left us with a fascinating array of error coins known as overdates. The 1802/0 1/2C falls precisely into this category. Such coins are excellent examples of the pragmatic approaches taken by the mint due to restricted resources and materials. The 1802/0 1/2C Reverse of 1800 also represents a transitionary phase in the half cent's design. The reverse of 1800 features a distinct style different from later designs, which adds a layer of interest for both historical coin enthusiasts and numismatists. ### Rarity and Collector’s Value The rarity and value of this coin can fluctuate significantly based on the condition and demand within the market. It is known that these coins have fetched impressive sums in auctions due to their unique characteristics and historical significance. For example, sales have seen these coins traded for several thousands of dollars, with particular emphasis on well-preserved specimens that have detailed and clear overdate features. ### Recent Auction Insights While specific auction results can vary, many 1802/0 1/2C Reverse of 1800 coins have achieved high prices at major auction houses. Collectors value the historical context and the numismatic intrigue of overdates, which adds to the coin’s allure. Record prices generally reflect coins in high-grade conditions with exceptional eye appeal. The coin continues to be a highly esteemed piece within collections, reflecting both the early days of U.S. minting and the complexities of coin preservation. Collectors seeking such a coin often look to major numismatic auctions, where pedigree, provenance, and coin conditions are thoroughly evaluated to infer value expectations. Thus, the 1802/0 1/2C Reverse of 1800 is more than just a piece of early American currency—it's a window into the past, where each example tells a unique story of early mint challenges and American monetary history. Collectors treasure these coins not only for their rarity and financial value but also for the rich history they represent.