Offered is a very important example of the 1831 <em>original</em> half cent--one of the most famous rarities in the half cent series of 1793 to 1857. The strike is sharp and the surfaces display a warm glossy brown patina, with a satin to modestly semi-reflective finish. A few swirls of variegated crimson-copper toning are noted, as is some ancient surface build up around many of the devices. This beautiful coin has uncommonly smooth and uniform surfaces for the assigned grade.<br /><br />According to official Mint records, 2,200 circulation strike half cents were delivered in 1831. Today fewer than 35 pieces are estimated to survive in all grades per PCGS <em>CoinFacts</em>. For some numismatic experts, including the graders and other specialists at NGC, all known original 1831 half cents are survivors of a small Proof-only issue. Others, including PCGS, favor the scenario by which the Philadelphia Mint struck both Proof and circulation half cents from these original dies, the latter referred to by the C-1 attribution, as here. Arguments in favor of the latter theory include the fact that there are more circulated examples known than unmistakable Proofs, too many some would say to be explained away as Proofs that were intentionally or accidentally released into commercial channels.<br /><br />In any event, all original 1831 half cents are significant numismatic rarities that enjoy strong demand among advanced collectors. Among these, the offered original is very special. Early copper enthusiasts, half cent specialists and more generalized collectors interested in key date coinage are sure to compete vigorously to secure this important specimen.,,PCGS# 1186. NGC ID: 2236.,PCGS Population: 2; 6 finer in this category (Proof-66 BN finest).,