1869 50C Silver Half Dollar Pattern, J-754 PCGS PR66CAM (CAC)

This offering from AUCM is a sparkling, fully brilliant Premium Gem with dramatic cameo contrast.  A figure of Liberty wearing a headband that declares LIBERTY and bedecked with a star faces to the right, while the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the figure, and a scroll with IN GOD WE TRUST sits below the bust. The reverse has 50 CENTS centered within an oak and laurel wreath with STANDARD SILVER above and the date 1869 is found below. Struck in silver with a reeded edge.

This popular pattern from 1869 was also struck in copper, aluminum, and brass. The design was crafted by James B. Longacre. The total population of J-754 is 56, per the book United States Pattern Coins by J. Hewitt Judd, M.D. PCGS has graded 2 as PR66 CAMEO, with none finer. Collectors Universe gives the J-754 pattern a price of $5,750.00 in PR66CAM. In CAC, there are 2 in PR66 with none finer.

James B. Longacre, who crafted the attractive design of this pattern coin. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.