1831 1/2C 1st Restrike, Rev of 1836, BN
The 1831 1/2C 1st Restrike, Rev of 1836, BN (Proof) is an esteemed collector's piece with considerable historical significance and rarity. Struck as a proof-only variety, this coin is the result of the mid-19th-century practice of restriking earlier coinage for collectors, using modified dies and original unused blanks or planchets.
Rarity and History : This half cent, often recognized for its distinct reverse design of 1836, falls under the category of first restrikes, produced with no official mintage figures recorded. The original dies were employed at the Philadelphia Mint to strike these pieces during the 1850s. The rarity of this coin is underscored by the limited number produced, which is estimated by experts familiar with the series to be around a few dozen specimens. These were likely struck on leftover proof blanks from 1831, or perhaps contemporary planchets that shared similar metallic composition, which makes identifying exact mintage numbers challenging. From a numismatist's perspective, the 1831 1/2C restrike serves as a tangible link to the economic and minting practices of 19th-century America. Collectors highly prize it, not only for its historical relevance but also for its beauty and the craftsmanship evident in its design.
Value and Recent Sales : The coin's market value significantly varies, primarily influenced by its condition and provenance. As of the latest sales records, prices have ranged broadly, with a few notable auctions reaching upwards of $30,000 to $50,000, depending on the grade and bidders' interest. For example, top-tier specimens graded by PCGS as PR65 or higher have achieved premium prices due to their eye appeal and preserved state.
Details and Characteristics : The coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, using the highest level of craftsmanship expected of proof issues. Collectors can identify it by its distinct obverse paired with the reverse of 1836, and its brown (BN) designation indicates the predominant color of the coin in its current preserved form. As classified by PCGS CoinFacts
Mint : Philadelphia
Mintage : 30
PCGS #:1189
This coin's significance is doubled by its sheer scarcity and the intriguing tales about its origins. Both collectors and historians alike are drawn to this fascinating piece due to its combination of rarity, mystery, and aesthetic appeal.
Collector's Insights : Collectors pursuing this coin should seek reputable dealers or auctions and verify the coin's authenticity rigorously, as its high value makes it a prime target for counterfeits. Documentation and expert authentication often accompany genuine high-grade examples, ensuring the piece aligns with existing numismatic records from sites like coinfacts.com. Overall, the 1831 1/2C 1st Restrike, Rev of 1836, BN (Proof) remains an outstanding example of early American minting ingenuity and a highlight for any numismatist's collection. Its market trends reflect both its intrinsic beauty and the perpetual intrigue surrounding its origins and limited mintage.