1846 Liberty Seated Half Dime, Proof-65 (PCGS/CAC)
Rare Proof, Est. 10 - 12 Known, Ex Eliasberg

The obverse is toned in soft shades of green and gold, while the reverse toning, slightly more pronounced, is violet and amber at center, framed in blue about the wreath, and green and gold about the periphery. The devices are frosted and contrast with the boldly reflective fields. Some scattered, faint obverse hairlines, although trivial, arguably set the grade.

Estimates of surviving 1846 Proof Half Dimes range from a low of 10 to 12 (Breen, Proof Encyclopedia), up to as many as 20 (Bowers and Merena, Eliasberg catalogue). However, with a combined nine Proofs reported by PCGS and NGC, chances are that the lower estimate may be correct. Additionally, while NGC reports three coins certified PR66 and one PR67, because of the difference in grading standards between the two services, this PCGS PR65 is still a strong contender for the Finest Known Proof of the date.

PCGS has certified only two Proof 1846 Half Dimes, a PR64, and this Finest PCGS PR65.

Provenance:

• John G. Mills Collection (S.H. and Henry Chapman, April 1904)
• J.M. and John H. Clapp (Morton and J.B. Stack privately, 1942)
• Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. (Bowers and Merena 5/1996: Lot 966 as "PR66").