1871 50C, CAM PR63CAM Certification #12472662, PCGS #86429

Ron Guth

In 1871, the mintage of Proof Half Dollars dropped to 960 pieces, just a small decrease from the previous year.  However, in real terms, Proof 1871 Half Dollars are definitely scarcer than the 1870's, at least in terms of the total number of certified pieces.  The overall quality of this year is slightly lower, as well, with a surprising number of PR62's on the market (these are Proofs that were mis-handled, hairlined, or otherwise impaired).  To it's credit, this was the first year in awhile where Cameo Proofs begin showing up in greater abundace.  Deep Cameo 1871 Half Dollars also exist, but they are very rare.