1836 1/2C Second Restrike Rev of 1840 Design, BN
The 1836 1/2C Second Restrike with the Reverse of 1840 Design, known in numismatic circles for its remarkable rarity and appeal to collectors of early American coinage, is an intriguing artifact from the United States Mint. This particular coin, bearing the PCGS #1220, falls under the Proof category with a Brown (BN) designation. Its storied past and limited production have made it a coveted piece among enthusiasts.
Mint and Mintage : The 1836 1/2C Second Restrike was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility in the early 19th century. What distinguishes this coin is its unique combination of dies. The obverse features the original 1836 design, while the reverse showcases the later 1840 modification. Given its nature as a restrike, the mintage of this coin is extraordinarily low, with only a handful known to exist. Exact numbers are elusive, but estimates suggest a production run of perhaps just a few dozen pieces.
Numismatic Rarity and Appeal : The rarity of the 1836 1/2C Second Restrike cannot be overstated. As restrikes, these coins were not intended for general circulation. They were likely produced for collectors or as official Mint issues later in the century. This rarity is compounded by the coin’s novel design attributes, bridging two distinct eras of half-cent production.
Market Value and Notable Sales : The value of the 1836 1/2C Second Restrike reflects its scarcity and historical significance. Prices for this coin can reach substantial sums at auction, often drawing fierce bidding from collectors eager to acquire this exceptional piece. The auction scene has seen these coins fetch impressive figures, with some examples exceeding tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and provenance. Specific sales have recorded these coins achieving record prices, highlighting their prized status among numismatists.
Historical Context : From a historical perspective, the 1836 1/2C Second Restrike is a window into the early operations of the United States Mint. The era of its creation was a time of experimentation and adaptation, with the Mint refining its processes and responding to the evolving needs of the young nation. These coins underscore the transition period in American numismatics, with the reverse design modification representing an aesthetic and functional shift in coinage. In conclusion, the 1836 1/2C Second Restrike with the Reverse of 1840 Design, BN (Proof), stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of American coinage history. Its low mintage and distinctive design elements make it a highlight of any significant numismatic collection, while historical insights provide both context and allure to this fascinating coin. Collectors and historians alike treasure the 1836 1/2C Second Restrike for its rarity, craftsmanship, and connection to a formative period in U.S. minting history.