1836 Original, B-1, C-EO12, R.5, PR65+ Red PCGS. Our EAC Grade PR66. CAC. ...

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1836 B-1 Original Half Cent, PR65+ Red
The Only Red Proof 1836 Half Cent

1836 Original, B-1, C-EO12, R.5, PR65+ Red PCGS. Our EAC Grade PR66. CAC. Equivalents. Proskey 1:1-A; Ross 1-A; Gilbert-1; Empire-84; Cohen-EO12; Breen-1, BW-1.
Rarity. The Breen-Hanson Condition Census includes 35 examples of this proof-only issue while PCGS estimates 30 to 40 proofs survive. The Bowers-Whitman Guide Book estimates just 10 to 15 proofs are known.
Obverse 1. This obverse die was used for all varieties of 1836 proof half cents. Small punches were used for the date, and the stars are also small, like those of 1833 through 1835. This is the last year of issue for Johann "John" Reich's Classic Head design that was introduced in 1809.

Reverse A. This reverse die first appeared on the 1836 Original half cents, and was then used for the 1831 and 1836 First Restrike half cents. The point of the highest leaf is below the left side of the final S in STATES, and that is diagnostic.
Edge. Plain. The edge is partially squared and partially beveled. Compare the edge of this piece and the next coin that provides identification of "Original" strikes and "First Restrike" strikes.
Surfaces. A stunning Gem proof with fiery orange mint color that is nearly as fresh as the day it was made. The fields are fully mirrored and the devices are sharply detailed with satin luster. A few trivial spots, including one between the upper points of Star 5, will aid identification.
Die State. Perfect dies.

Appearances. Illustrated at the PCGS Set Registry record of the McGuigan Collection. The reverse appears on the Breen color plate.
PCGS Population (6/2022). This PR65+ Red is the only 1836 half cent that PCGS has designated with red color. The other 41 submissions, including 31 Originals, five First Restrikes, and five Second Restrikes, are Brown or Red and Brown.
Commentary. Combining various records gives a population that might reach 50 proofs. The challenge in creating an accurate Condition Census involves the same obverse and reverse die use for those called Originals, and others described as First Restrikes. The present piece from the McGuigan Collection may qualify as the finest known.
McGuigan Commentary. Superb full mint red reflective surfaces.
Provenance. Ex: Hollis Page; Dr. Thomas Hall (9/7/1909); Virgil M. Brand; Brand Estate; New Netherlands (8/1951); Harold Bareford; William J. Bareford; Jules Reiver (12/1993).
Personality. A Boston physician, Dr. Thomas Hall (1841-1909) was an active collector of Colonials and large cents, assembling an excellent collection of 1793 and 1794 cents. He published a monograph on Connecticut coppers in 1892. The Hall Collection was sold to Virgil Brand in September 1909.
From The James R. McGuigan Half Cent Collection. (Registry values: P3)

Coin Index Numbers: (PCGS# 1209, Greysheet# 578)

Metal: 100% Copper
Weight: 5.44 grams
Weight: 0.19oz

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