1895 50C Barber Half Dollar PCGS PR67

Here is a simply stunning example of numismatic art. Charles E. Barber’s designs are quite magnificent in high grade proof examples, and with its rainbow toning, this piece is indeed magnificent! From its miniscule mintage of 880, there are 14 that carry the grade of PCGS PR67 with only 3 finer. Collectors Universe gives this issue a price of $6,500.00 in PR67.

Writes Ron Guth in PCGS Coinfacts, “At 880 pieces, the mintage of Proof 1895 Half Dollars is slightly-above average for the series, but enticingly miniscule and attractive relative to any modern mintages. This date offers some real stand-out pieces, including several at the PR68 level …. Proofs of this date are well-made, with strong details throughout; it is rare to find weakness on any of the stars or the eagle's talons.”

Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver who designed and engraved the Barber half dollar, quarter and dime series.

Numismatic scholar and art critic Cornelius Vermeule writes that, "Liberty's cap, incised diadem, and wreath of laurel were designed to echo all the depth and volume of her Olympian countenance. The classical substances are offset, almost literally, by the sharply rectangular dentils of the raised rim and the strength of 13 six-pointed stars. On the [reverse] ... an equal constellation of stars ... is clustered above the eagle's shaggy, craggy profile. On both sides the simple dignity of motto, legend, and denomination binds the pictorialism into a cohesive tondo. The wealth of irregular surfaces and sharp angles is an almost electrifying aesthetic experience .... specimens [are] a pleasure to contemplate. The sculptor was unsurpassed in the mechanics of creating a durable design of monumental validity."