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[L#0312] 1938 50c PCGS PF66 Cameo

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money Start Price:9,000.00 USD Estimated At:15,000.00 - 25,000.00 USD
[L#0312] 1938 50c PCGS PF66 Cameo
The introduction of Proofs again in 1936 was a cause for joy and celebration among America's collecting fraternity. The dry spell had been long and agonizing -- with no Proofs offered officially between 1917 and 1935. However, the new designs for the Liberty Walking half dollar caused a problem. Due to the way these modern designs were created, it was not possible to "basin" the Proof dies in the same way they had been prepared in the years of the Barber coinage. As a result, "all brilliant" finishes predominated. The mint had either forgotten how to frost dies, or had decided the uneven elements in the design precluded making the relief portions frosted. However, a few frosted proofs of 1936-42 do exist. These tend to be the first few dozen strikes from new dies. We are proud and indeed delighted to offer this incredible cameo Proof 1938 as vindication for collectors who have never heard of such an item or seen one.

Although the greater brilliance of the Proofs of 1936-42 satisfied collectors, this feature came at a high cost to the overall quality of the Liberty Walking half dollars. In repeatedly polishing the dies, the Mint caused much of the lower relief detail in the branch and (sometimes) the initials AW, to become weakened or even obliterated. Elements like the left curve of the flag and tiny pine needles were all lessened to some degree, but not on this lovely frosted 1938!

The onset of World War II strained the Mint's capacity to its fullest, causing a suspension in proof coinage after 1942. Initially thought to be temporary, this cessation would continue until 1950!