Attributing Reeded Edge Halves 1837-1839

opportunity

Have any of you had any luck attributing Reeded Edge Halves by GR/JR number? I have the new book, but I find it pretty much impossible to attribute anything unless there's a characteristic die crack.

HCumberdale

Having myself attributed hundreds, if not close to a thousand Reeded Edge half dollars by now, I will tell you that this is the story of this fun and short-lived series. Either there are extremely easy pick-up-points (significant cracks for example) that you can readily use for attribution, or the markers are much more subtle. The good news is that you will begin to notice these subtle markers the more experienced you become. Also, many pieces that are below VF and/or damaged are extremely difficult for even the best of us to attribute conclusively. It is also not uncommon for me to put down a coin and come back to it later for those difficult pieces; you'll be surprised to see what you might have missed with a fresh set of eyes. Graham's reference is MUCH easier to use than Reiver's so consider yourself fortunate to be attempting attribution now rather than before it came out

Keep at it, and post pictures here if you need help, or feel free to PM me.

mozin

I got so frustrated, while trying to attribute Reeded Edge Half Dollars with the Reiver book, that I actually sold off all my REHD. Now, I can attribute some with Dick Graham's book, but just looking at pictures is really tough. If I cannot find a crack, I may be out of luck. Another trick I use, check out the common marriages first. Just forget about any rare marriages.

I have been trying to find PCGS 58 examples of all but the 1837. If they also have the CAC sticker, that is even better. So far, nothing I find suits me.

Betta285

<< <i>Having myself attributed hundreds, if not close to a thousand Reeded Edge half dollars by now, I will tell you that this is the story of this fun and short-lived series. Either there are extremely easy pick-up-points (significant cracks for example) that you can readily use for attribution, or the markers are much more subtle. The good news is that you will begin to notice these subtle markers the more experienced you become. Also, many pieces that are below VF and/or damaged are extremely difficult for even the best of us to attribute conclusively. It is also not uncommon for me to put down a coin and come back to it later for those difficult pieces; you'll be surprised to see what you might have missed with a fresh set of eyes. Graham's reference is MUCH easier to use than Reiver's so consider yourself fortunate to be attempting attribution now rather than before it came out

Keep at it, and post pictures here if you need help, or feel free to PM me. >>



HCumberdale-- Sounds like quite the hoard of Reeded Edges you must have! I hear that the upcoming Pogue sales should have some phenomenal examples. Though I personally tend to get caught up in 39-O's too often to hunt down the big fish.

-JNM

TomB

Personally, I like the book and think it is well written.

lkeigwin

I like the RE series. It doesn't get the same respect as the earlier LE halves. But on balance they are better struck with a pleasing design.

With the introduction of steam presses and the reducing lathe the Mint was able to place all features on the working hubs (except the date) and ramp up production more quickly. Except for the date, all dies were identical. The era of quirky, hand-punched and engraved half dollar varieties had come to an end. Technology marched on.

Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht reworked the design for improved metal flow and the new presses. Minting did not begin until very late in the year and a small run of perhaps 1200 coins were pressed from a single die pair. Their release into circulation was unexpected as the coin's revised design and size had not been approved by Congress. The 1836 reeded edge was considered a pattern by many. However, Congress enacted the new law in early 1837. And as these pieces met the requirements they were released into circulation.

Here are some AU examples.
Lance.

Ronyahski

Switch to Classic Head Gold 1834 - 1839! CHG production didn't employ the reducing lathe and standardized hubbing until 1838, and then only for Philadelphia. So there are many interesting and distinguishable die varieties that are just beginning to be realized.