1856 1/2C, BN
The 1856 1/2 Cent, BN (Proof), is a remarkable piece in the realm of numismatics, characterized by its rarity and historical significance. Struck in 1856 at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is one of the last half cent pieces produced before the series was officially discontinued. The minting of half cents ceased in 1857, following the Coinage Act of 1857 which sought to overhaul the coinage system, marking a critical transition in United States numismatics.
The 1856 Proof Half Cent is notable for its limited mintage. According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), only about 40 specimens were produced. These coins were not intended for general circulation but were likely created for collectors and inclusion in proof sets. As such, they hold a particular allure for numismatists and collectors who specialize in early American copper coinage. Identified by its PCGS coin number, 1329, the coin is categorized under the Braided Hair type, which was designed by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht.
The coin's obverse features the classic Liberty head design adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," while the reverse displays the denomination within a wreath. The proof designation signifies a coin struck with specially prepared dies and planchets, resulting in a superior finish with mirror-like fields. The "BN" denotation refers to the “Brown” color of the coin, a natural patina that many copper coins acquire over time. In terms of market value and sales, the 1856 1/2 Cent in proof condition can command high figures due to its scarcity and desirability. Values can vary considerably based on the coin’s condition, provenance, and the hue variations within the "Brown" classification. Coins from this issue have historically realized significant sums in auctions.
For instance, well-preserved specimens with exceptional eye appeal can exceed prices in the range of several thousand dollars, with particularly outstanding sales occasionally breaking higher benchmarks in professional auction settings. From a numismatic perspective, the 1856 Proof Half Cent represents not only an essential piece of American coinage history but also a symbol of the era's numismatic artistry. Collectors often seek coins with the finest details preserved, such as the intricate design of Liberty's hair or the delicate engraving of the wreath on the reverse.
Such attributes offer insights into the minting technologies and artistic standards of the mid-19th century. Beyond its physical beauty, the 1856 1/2 Cent coin is a poignant reminder of the transition away from fractional copper denominations, reflecting the economic and legislative changes of the time. These coins, with their storied past, continue to attract fervent interest from collectors who appreciate both their historical context and their stunning design attributes. As a proof issue, they stand out for their rarity and craftsmanship, holding a venerable place in any esteemed coin collection.
