American "victory" over Great Britain (though neither side actually gained or lost meaningful territory) that concluded the War of 1812 ushered in an "Era of Good Feelings," and led to increased global prestige on the part of the United States. Thus, the period from 1817 to 1833 saw a desire on the part of the mint to produce presentation sets for visiting dignitaries and the occasional collector (of which some within the United States and overseas desired American coinage). Advent of the steam press in the early 1830s provided the ability to produce coins with raised rims and more consistent strike characteristics from improved dies. This in turn led to the first true proof quality coins starting with the half-cent in 1831.1833 saw the production of perhaps thirty proof half-cents, a mintage that is on par with the known output of other copper coins of this early era. A current R.5 rating (as a proof) further attests to the earth of examples available on the market at any given time.
From the aesthetic standpoint, nothing could be more pleasing in early brown copper than the extraordinary enameled quality of this wonderful half-cent, with much cameo effect evident despite the extensive patina across both sides. Obverse fields are replete with marvelous amethyst tone that cedes to chartreuse-gold accents in places, while the reverse is less energized by these dramatic colors, yet features a subtle antique character that speaks to superb original quality. To the extent allowed by the slab, the rims appear pristine and unaffected by any detractions, and indeed, this entire coin is wonderfully free from handling marks or incidental contact. Finally, miscellaneous observations note that the NGC slab is an early generation type with an embossed back, and without question, the PF-64 BN grade will seem numerically very conservative by today's standards. The slab itself is in excellent condition and not scratched up, so that reholdering will not be necessary. Probably insufficient original mint red is available to allow for more than an EAC 60 grade, yet the aesthetic qualities far surpass that assessment.
An incredibly deep, sharp strike gives the details an appearance completely unlike that of a typical business strike of the era. All thirteen stars are so deeply impressed that they appear to jut up right off the surface and stand taller than ever seen on coins intended for circulation, while Liberty's portrait is carved in unfathomable three-dimensional relief that is genuinely reminiscent of a modern high-relief Saint. Many of the finest of die polish lines can be seen on Liberty's cheek, though the dies fields were obviously polished to pristine reflectivity. A byproduct of the polishing procedure, several tiny threads were struck through the obverse in the vicinity of Liberty's nose and mouth. The remarkable characteristics of striking relief carry over to the reverse, where leaves in the wreath look like they are lying atop the fields, and there is distinct variance in the depth between stems, berries and leaves. The veins in each leaf are intricately detailed, and letters are incredibly sharp, clearly showing multiple repunching of each.
A fantastic coin from a fabulous and vastly difficult series, and an opportunity that presents itself very seldom. Let history tell enamour you wtih her story as you ponder a bid for this marvelous jewel.