Diagnostic Controls & Presets Civil War Trophy (Only 4 Originals 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
Reverse Engraver: A.H.M. Peterson (New Orleans die sinker)
When Louisiana seceded, the Confederacy seized the New Orleans Mint. Superintendent William A. Elmore ordered dies engraved with a Confederate shield and cotton wreath, striking four specimens before bullion ran out.
Planchet Prep: Original reverse planed smooth, obverse flattened
In 1879, New York dealer J.W. Scott purchased the original die from Chief Coiner B.F. Taylor. He bought 500 genuine 1861-O Seated halves, planed off their reverse designs, and restruck them with the original CSA die.
Severity: Progressive widening from originals to restrikes
Even during the original 4 strikes in 1861, the brittle die fractured. By 1879, the crack had expanded significantly, serving as an unforgeable fingerprint of the genuine die.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Ex-Jefferson Davis & Eric P. Newman. One of the four original specimens; authenticated by early state of the diagnostic die crack.
Exceptional preservation with shimmering silver flash; faint traces of the flattened US eagle undertype visible beneath the obverse.
Choice cabinet specimen showing full cotton bolls, distinct 7-star shield, and bold die fracture through 'CONFEDERATE'.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many original 1861 Confederate States of America Half Dollars were struck?
Only four original specimens were struck at the New Orleans Mint in April 1861 under Confederate authority. The four coins were presented to: (1) CSA President Jefferson Davis, (2) Treasury Secretary C.G. Memminger, (3) Dr. E. Ames, and (4) Chief Coiner B.F. Taylor. Today, all four are documented, with one residing in the Eric P. Newman collection and another in the American Numismatic Society.
What is an 1879 Scott Restrike CSA Half Dollar?
In 1879, prominent New York coin dealer J.W. Scott purchased the original Confederate reverse die from former CSA Chief Coiner B.F. Taylor. Scott bought 500 genuine 1861-O Seated Liberty half dollars, shaved (planed) the original US reverse smooth on a lathe, and stamped the Confederate design using a screw press. These 500 coins are known as 'Scott Restrikes' and are highly prized historical collectibles.
Why were only four original coins struck in 1861?
After seizing the New Orleans Mint in January 1861, Confederate officials initially continued striking regular US design coinage using existing federal dies until silver bullion supplies were exhausted. Only a small amount of silver remained when the custom Confederate die was completed, and military defense priorities prevented further bullion purchases.
What does the Confederate Half Dollar reverse depict?
The reverse features a central Union-style shield containing seven stars (representing the seven initial seceding states: SC, MS, FL, AL, GA, LA, TX), topped by a Phrygian Liberty cap on a pole, enclosed by an agricultural wreath of cotton and sugar cane, surrounded by 'CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOL.'
What is the diagnostic die crack on the Confederate die?
On all genuine specimens (both original 1861 strikes and 1879 Scott restrikes), a distinct die crack begins at the upper left rim near the letter 'C' in CONFEDERATE, cuts diagonally through the letters 'FED', and extends across the upper field into the tip of the shield. On the 1879 restrikes, this crack is wider and more pronounced due to die rust.
How can you tell an original 1861 strike from an 1879 Scott restrike?
On the four original 1861 coins, both the obverse (Seated Liberty) and reverse were struck simultaneously, resulting in a full, rounded obverse strike. On the 1879 Scott restrikes, the coin was planed down and restruck against a flat steel anvil, causing Miss Liberty on the obverse to appear noticeably flattened and compressed.
Are there cast counterfeits of the Confederate Half Dollar?
Yes. Thousands of cheap cast replicas made of pot metal, lead, or pewter circulate in flea markets and souvenir shops. Genuine Scott restrikes weigh approximately 12.0 to 12.4 grams (slightly lighter than standard 12.44g due to reverse planing) and have standard 90% silver specific gravity and reeded edges.