1872 Pattern Liberty Half Eagle. Judd-1243, Pollock-1385. Rarity-7+. Copper. Reeded Edge. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). CAC.strongObv & Rev:/strong regular dies for the 1872 Liberty half eaglepDominant reddish-brown obverse toning yields to somewhat dusky, sandy brown toning on the reverse. Both sides are equally smooth as far as freedom from contact marks is concerned, although we are compelled to mention a trace of extremely light, very faint surface build up in the protected areas around and among the devices. The strike is as sharp and complete as one should expect given the care with which off-metal impressions such as this were produced in the Philadelphia Mint of the late 19th century. The uspatterns.com website tells us: "Although these are described as regular die trial pieces in the standard references, it is more likely that the off-metal trials of this year were deliberately struck for sale to collectors. Examples were struck in copper and aluminum (J1244) with only three or four of each believed to exist." An attractive and original pattern sure to appeal to Liberty half eagle specialists.
