Pre-Long Beach Auction #84

1837. No Stars, Small Date. PCGS graded MS-65. Very lightly toned on both sides in hues of lilac-gray and a nice, bold strike. The first year issue of a new design is often tempting for the collecting public. In the case of the 1837 half dime, the first year also comprises a scarce two-year design by Christian Gobrecht, noted designer and mint engraver at the time. The familiar figure of a seated Liberty is positioned in a simple, plain field. Later, the Mint would add 13 stars around her at the periphery. 1837 was an interesting period in American history. The two term president, Andrew Jackson would switch places in office in January that year with incoming Martin Van Buren, his hand-picked successor. The state of the nation was in turmoil (as it often was), but that did not hinder distribution of the sweet little half dimes of the new seated Gobrecht design Pop 25; 14 finer, 8 in 66, 1 in 66+, 4 in 67, 1 in 68 (PCGS # 4312) .
Estimated Value $2,200 - 2,300.