1848 Braided Hair Half Cent. First Restrike. B-2. Rarity-5. Small Berries, Reverse of 1856. Proof-65 BN (PCGS). CAC. Iridescent olive-brown patina with appreciable faded pinkish-orange color remaining, especially around the peripheries. A bit lightly struck in the centers, yet sharp elsewhere, vivid undertones and silky smooth surfaces further enhance this coins visual appeal. Impressive provenance! In the world of copper American coins, the Proof-only half cents of 1840-1848 are among the most challenging of all disciplines. The quantities struck of Originals as well as the later Restrikes were tiny at best, probably with just several dozen pieces in the former format made for most dates, along with an untold quantity of Restrikes that were concocted in later dates, generally during the 1850s. The population among this date range is thin at best, and many collectors rely on the occasional auction appearance perhaps as much as any venue to obtain pleasing Proofs of the era. The presently offered Gem Proof 1848 will make a splendid addition to any advanced half cent collection currently being formed. From our (Stacks) sale of the John Work Garrett Collection for The Johns Hopkins University, March 1976, lot 15. Lot tag included.
