An unmistakable Proof 1834 half dime offering exquisite premium Gem quality. Both the fields and recesses of the devices are fully mirrored and attest to extensive die polishing in preparation for this special coinage. The balance of the devices have a more satin texture that contrasts modestly with the reflective surface areas. The entire coin is beautifully toned in iridescent steel gray with intermingled pink, gold and blue highlights. The borders are crisp and the devices sharply defined.As with all early U.S. Mint Proof coins, the 1834 half dime is elusive in this format. All known specimens were struck from the LM-4 die marriage, later used to coin circulation strikes. The Proofs, as here, have the right diagonal of the letter M in AMERICA full, which was later mostly effaced through relapping of the die before the circulation strikes were produced. In the 1989 revision to the reference Walter Breens Encyclopedia of United States and Colonial Proof Coins, the author states that at least 15 different examples of this issue are known. Current estimates are more liberal, with the online version of the PCGS Population Report accounting for 20 to 30 pieces extant. In either case, this issue is scarce and popular, given the fact that 1834 is the year that the Mint produced the fabled King of Siam Proof Set. Interestingly, the 1834 half dime in that set was added later since this denomination was missing when the set was discovered in 1962.