1871-S H10C MS66 PCGS. CAC. V-2....

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Description

1871-S Half Dime, MS66
Mintmark Above Bow Style
Tied for Finest Graded

1871-S H10C MS66 PCGS. CAC. V-2. Grayish-gold surfaces show deeper accents of scattered copper-colored patina on this Premium Gem 1871-S, one of the curious late-series issues where the mintmark has been moved to above the bow. The surfaces are well-preserved and sharply struck. This piece is certified in a green-label PCGS holder.

Variety: Mintmark Above Bow. V-2. Based on Stephen Crain's November 1996 article in the Gobrecht Journal, this coin is a V-2 as it combines Obverse 1 with Reverse B.

Population Data (7/14): PCGS and NGC each report five submissions in MS66 and none finer. Only three of those coins have the green CAC approval sticker.

Heritage Commentary: All of the 1871-S half dimes are of the Mintmark Above Bow style, while the 1872-S half dimes are seen with both styles. In 1873, the S mintmark was again moved below the wreath. There is no real explanation for this, and indeed it has spurred little discussion that we know of; even the fecund Walter Breen fails to give it more than bare notice in his Complete Encyclopedia. It is just one of those piquant occurrences in 19th century numismatics that are so fascinating to collectors.

Consignor Commentary: The coin has to be an early strike, as both sides are sharply struck and close to perfect. The only irregularity on the obverse is some kind of notch at the top of the flag on the first 1 in the date. The strong strike on the reverse shows full details on the corn and wheat. There are no die cracks.

Provenance: Purchased from Joseph O'Connor (2/2004).(Registry values: N2998)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 234W, PCGS# 4399, Greysheet# 3834)

Weight: 1.24 grams

Metal: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

View Certification Details from PCGS