1838 50C J-73 Classic Head/Flying Eagle Half Dollar PCGS PR66 (CAC)

The obverse was designed by William Kneass and the reverse is adapted from Titian Peale's flying eagle drawings. Engraved by Christian Gobrecht. The definition of the eagle looks a bit like an early engraving attempt from 1836 and not something produced after the Gobrecht flying eagle used on the dollar. In 1838, the flying eagle used on the dollar would have been easily reduced for use on a half dollar. Regardless, this the first and only usage of this reverse. The reverse shows radial cracks between the AM in AMERICA and the AR in DOLLAR, which are found on all examples. There is a faint crack by the A in HALF, which makes this example one of the earliest die states known. In fact, all examples INCLUDING those designated as Original by PCGS have this die crack extending all the way to the center of the coin. 

This is one of the finest examples known as well as certianly the pretiest examples known, with exquisite toning on both sides. The fields are deeply mirrored and flash strongly through the cobalt-blue and deep rose toning seen on each side. No obvious flaws or contact marks are apparent. 

Prior to leaving my hands, this coin will be sent back to PCGS to change the attribution from Restrike to Original as this coin is one of the earliest die states known. Really, the designation is corrupted as none of the coins now designated as Original PCGS can have any real claim compared to this coin.