1821 Proof Capped Head to Left Half Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$198,000 PR63 10-01-1987 Bowers & Merena

Description

The 1821 Proof Capped Head to Left Half Eagle is a proof Gold Half Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Capped Head to Left Half Eagles 1813-1834 series. With a mintage of 3, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with 0% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a cap with curls of hair beneath and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Struck during a period of national unity and westward expansion following the War of 1812, as the U.S. grew in confidence and territory. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $198,000 PR63 10-01-1987 Bowers & Merena. Struck in 91.7% gold, 8.3% copper, weighing 8.75 grams, 25 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8142.