1859 Pattern Half Dollar. Judd-237, Pollock-293. Rarity-4. Silver. Reeded Edge. Proof-65 (NGC).Obv: James Barton Longacres French Liberty head facing right with a crown of leaves of her head and the word LIBERTY inscribed on a ribbon draped over her shoulder. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is around the border and the date 1859 is below. Rev: The denomination HALF DOLLAR is centered within a wreath of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat and oak leaves. Handsome steel-olive patina blankets the obverse and rings the reverse periphery, the center on the latter side in slightly lighter pinkish-gray toning. Vivid undertones and well mirrored fields flash into view as the coin dips into a light. A popular and frequently encountered pattern type, offered here at an uncommonly high level of preservation.
