1841 Braided Hair Half Cent. Second Restrike. B-3. Rarity-6. Small Berries, Reverse of 1840. Proof-65+ BN (PCGS). CAC. Fully impressed with broad, squared off rims and appreciably reflective fields, this is an expertly produced survivor from the Proof-only 1841 half cent issue. Bathed in warm autumn-brown patina, both sides reveal iridescent cobalt blue undertones as the surfaces dip into a light. Exceptionally well preserved and solidly in the premium Gem category. Christian Gobrechts Braided Hair half cents were first produced in Proof-only format beginning in 1840 and matched in design with their circulating big brothers, the large cents. Beginning sometime in 1856, some of the Proof issues were restruck, a few using the original die pairs. Some issues were struck using a reverse die that can be distinguished by small berries on the reverse wreath and a doubled T in CENTS. Then in 1859 and continuing for approximately ten years thereafter, the so-called Second Restrikes were coins on an infrequent basis using a different reverse die that has the same small berries, but without the doubled letters and prominent die lines above RICA. Some of these were struck on significantly heavier planchets but are exceptionally rare. Restrikes of this issue are rarer than the originals, the experts at <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em> allowing for just 15 to 18 survivors of the former in all grades. This total includes both the B-2 First Restrike and B-3 Second Restrike varieties.
