Question about 1861 half - proof or circulation strike?

jzbrown

Hello - first post from longtime lurker/learner. Thanks for everything I have learned reading this forum.

Question is: Is it possible to tell the difference between a proof and a PL circulation strike by something specific other than the strike?
The reason is as follows:
Looking at an 1861 seated half in an old pci holder.
My local dealer has one that is graded ms62 but looks way better.
All devices are frosted with mirror fields. I do not know how deep as I did not really want to show that much interest in it until I checked further.
Strike is just razor sharp front and rear and with the pl appearance, I am thinking (hoping!!) it may be mis attributed.
Any assistance appreciated.

partagas

Here is the Wiley Bugert reference page courtesy of Stella. Stella 1861 Seated Half

And to get the correct answer, I suggest you post your question here. LSCC Seated Halves

Bill Bugert, a co-author of "The Book" on Seated Halves will most likely answer your question.

jzbrown

Thanks much. I posted it there also. I have only been collecting for about 5 years and I cannot imagine how much faster the learning curve for information is now compared to even 10 years ago. I would have been just wondering for months or more how can I find the answer to this question. Not that I have the answer yet but I have the experts on the case.

Thank again,

Jim

AUandAG

WELCOME! Enjoy and benefit!

bob