Whitman Expo
1856 Reverse of 1856 Half Cent PR RB Values
Details
The 1856 Proof Half Cent is of the Braided Hair design. The mintage in 1856 was a very high total with around 225 coins struck in which 50-60 are estimated to survive. The Reverse of 1856 variety is an ideal type coin for the series as there are quite a few to choose from. The 1856 and 1857 round out this denomination with large mintages ready for a fine collection.
According to numismatic researcher, Mark Borckhardt, there are two known reverse dies for the 1856 half cent: reverse of 1854, and reverse of 1856. The reverse of 1854 features a die chip on I, a left-over from 1854. The reverse of 1856 has berries below first A of AMERICA disconnected or nearly so. The branch stem loop right of T in CENT is nearly gone. These features are due to the progressive failure of the working hub.
Obverse: Lady Liberty is portrayed with hair tied in a bun, facing left, in what is referred to as the so-called braided hair style. The word LIBERTY appearing on her headband. 13 stars appear continuously around the periphery with the date at the bottom.
Reverse: The words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the periphery surround a wreath framing the words HALF CENT. The wreath is tied by a bow at the bottom.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
50–60 est. known
Coinage Type:
Half Cent
Coinage Years:
1840-1857
Composition:
Copper
Varieties and Classification
Variety:
Reverse of 1856
Rarity:
R-4
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
5.44 gr
Weight:
0.1749 oz
Strike Type:
Proof
Diameter:
23.5 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
Obverse Lettering:
LIBERTY, 1856
Obverse Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
Reverse Lettering:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, HALF, CENT
Reverse Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
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