1837 Proof Capped Bust, Large 5C Half Dime

Coin Details

Auction Record

$299 PR58 05-31-2012 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The 1837 Proof Capped Bust, Large 5C Half Dime is a proof dime struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Capped Bust Half Dimes 1829-1837 series. With a mintage of 4, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a mob cap or turban and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Final year of the Capped Bust Half Dime, overlapping with the first Seated Liberty issues. Both Large 5C and Small 5C reverse varieties exist. 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: $299 PR58 05-31-2012 Goldberg Auctioneers. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper, weighing 1.35 grams, 15.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #4300.