Diagnostic Controls & Presets First US Branch Mint Proof Issue (Only 20 Struck)
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Trial Strikes: 20 Proof Specimens (January 1839 delivery)
Coiner Rufus Tyler used dies prepared in Philadelphia dated 1838 with the 'O' mintmark punched on the obverse to test the newly installed high-speed steam press at the New Orleans Mint.
Diameter: 30.0 mm (Close collar reeding)
Struck in the modified Gobrecht reeded-edge format (50 CENTS reverse instead of the older 50 C. lettered edge), featuring 150 close-collar edge reeds.
Grade Ceiling: PR-64+ PCGS / PR-64 NGC
A tragic yellow fever epidemic struck New Orleans in late 1838, shutting down mint operations and resulting in Rufus Tyler's 20 test pieces becoming one of the most celebrated trophy coins in American history.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Ex-Joseph C. Mitchelson & Norweb Collection. Hypnotic reflective fields with delicate steel and russet toning around the stars.
Ex-Col. E.H.R. Green & Waldo Newcomer. Extraordinary provenance with full cameo contrast on Liberty's cap and drapery.
Remarkable circulated survivor found in an uncertified collection; authentic 'O' mintmark verified by die polish markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar considered the 'King of Branch Mint Silver'?
The 1838-O is the inaugural silver coin struck at the first southern branch mint of the United States—the New Orleans Mint. Coiner Rufus Tyler struck only 20 proof test specimens to adjust the steam machinery before operations were suspended due to a devastating yellow fever outbreak. Today, only 11 or 12 genuine specimens are known to exist.
Where is the 'O' mintmark located on an 1838-O half dollar?
Uniquely, the 'O' mintmark is positioned on the obverse side, squarely centered directly above the date '1838' and below Miss Liberty's bust. This is one of the very few early US silver coins to place the mintmark on the obverse rather than the reverse.
Were any 1838-O half dollars struck for regular circulation?
No regular business strikes were ever produced. All 20 coins struck by Rufus Tyler were specially prepared Proof trial impressions. However, several examples subsequently entered commercial transactions in the New Orleans area or were carried as pocket pieces, surviving today in About Uncirculated or Very Fine condition.
How can you detect an added 'O' mintmark on an 1838 half dollar?
Because common 1838 Philadelphia half dollars sell for $1,000 to $2,000 while an authentic 1838-O commands over $500,000, counterfeiters often solder a tiny 'O' cut from an 1840-O half dollar onto a Philadelphia coin. Under microscopic examination, look for solder halos, disturbed metal around the date, or incorrect mintmark shape and alignment.
What die markers confirm a genuine 1838-O half dollar?
All 20 authentic coins were struck from a single die pair. Diagnostic markers include: (1) A small die defect on the lower left curve of the 'O' mintmark; (2) Minute die polish lines through the stars on the right; (3) The reverse eagle's left talon touches the olive branch leaf in a specific orientation unique to die variety GR-1.
What is the weight, diameter, and composition of the 1838-O half dollar?
It weighs 13.36 grams (206.25 grains), measures 30.0 millimeters in diameter, and is struck in 90% silver and 10% copper (0.900 fine silver). It features a reeded edge produced by a close collar.
Who owns the documented surviving specimens of the 1838-O half dollar?
The documented roster of 11 to 12 specimens resides primarily in elite private numismatic cabinets (such as the Hansen Collection) and major institutions like the Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection. Whenever an example appears at public auction, it invariably triggers international bidding wars exceeding $500,000.