1855 Braided Hair Half Cent. C-1. Rarity-5 as a Proof. Proof-64 BN (PCGS). Pinkish-rose and powder blue undertones backlight handsome autumn-brown patina on both sides of this wonderfully original specimen. Fully struck with broad, squared off rims and modest reflectivity evident in the fields as the coin dips into a light. While the Proof mintage of the 1855 half cent was undoubtedly higher than those achieved for the 1840s issues, these are still difficult to find. Perhaps 35 to 45 exist today in all grades, and interestingly these same dies were used to coin circulation strikes of the date, as well. An elegant example of this issue, and one with impressive attributes to appease the eye. From our (Stacks) Goshen Collection sale, February 1978, lot 823. Lot tag included.
