1840 Braided Hair Half Cent. Original. B-1a. Rarity-6. Large Berries. Proof. Unc Details--Altered Surfaces (PCGS). Both sides of this example display a bright copper-red color, probably due to it having been cleaned at one time. The finish is modestly reflective and the devices are razor sharp as would be expected for a Proof. Even the high, sharp wire edge remains.<br data-uw-rm-sr="" role="presentation" style="box-sizing:border-box;color:#333333;font-family:Avenir, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;background-color:#ffffff;" /><br data-uw-rm-sr="" role="presentation" style="box-sizing:border-box;color:#333333;font-family:Avenir, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;background-color:#ffffff;" />No half cents were struck for circulation from 1836 until part way through 1849, though Proofs were struck in 1836. Beginning in 1840 and continuing through 1848, however, the Philadelphia Mint did strike Proof half cents. Todays numismatists recognize original and two restrike formats, with the restrikes accomplished at a later time than the dates appearing on the coins. The year 1840 also saw the introduction of Christian Gobrechts Braided Hair design on the half cent (it made its debut a year earlier on the copper cent), which would remain in use through the end of the half cent series in 1857. The first circulation strikes of the type were delivered in 1849 and were of the Large Date variety.<br data-uw-rm-sr="" role="presentation" style="box-sizing:border-box;color:#333333;font-family:Avenir, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;background-color:#ffffff;" /><br data-uw-rm-sr="" role="presentation" style="box-sizing:border-box;color:#333333;font-family:Avenir, Roboto, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;background-color:#ffffff;" />As with all Proof half cents, the 1840 B-1a Original is a rare variety. These are distinguished by having large berries in the wreath. In his 1983 half cent Encyclopedia, Walter Breen lists seven distinct specimens, and states: "In addition, several other have been seen or reported." The <em>PCGS Population Report </em>estimates that 15 to 20 originals are known. Auction appearances for any Proof of this date are few and far between and the present offering is an important opportunity for specialized collectors. From our (Stacks) sale of the Robison Collection, February 1982, lot 366. Lot tag included.
