1859 Pattern Half Dollar. Judd-237, Pollock-293. Rarity-4. Silver. Reeded Edge. Proof. Unc Details--Environmental Damage (PCGS).Obv: James Barton Longacres French Head of Liberty design. A bust of Liberty faces right with a wreath of oak and vine leaves on her head, a ribbon or scroll inscribed LIBERTY crossing her right shoulder. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is around the border and the date 1859 is below. Rev: A wreath of cereals encloses the denomination HALF DOLLAR. The reverse is richly toned in blended olive, pewter gray and golden-russet, while the reverse exhibits mottled darker steel-blue patina that explains the PCGS qualifier. Direct lighting calls forth semi-reflective qualities from the fields, nonetheless, full striking detail further enhancing the coins appeal. With more than 50 specimens believed extant (per the uspatterns.com website), Judd-237 is one of the more readily obtainable patterns from the mid-19th century United States Mint.From the E. Horatio Morgan Collection. Acquired December 1987.
