V-5, LM-6.2, R.5. An intermediate die state of this rare die pairing that lacks the (later seen) die cud over the M in AMERICA. Thought by the consignor to be a Proof, the fields retain an original, bright semi-prooflike sheen. The strike is unusually sharp with near full delineation in the haircurls and the lines in the shield. All known 1829 Proof half dimes were struck with other die pairings; none have been reported with the V-5, LM-6.2 dies. A simply beautiful and conditionally rare example. Almost certainly the finest known 1829 LM-6 half dime, and also high in the Condition Census for the issue as a whole.

The premiere issue in the Capped Bust series, the 1829 is also the first half dime struck in the United States Mint since 1805. This was obviously an unpopular denomination with contemporary depositors of silver bullion, many of which chose to have their product coined into the more substantial and useful half dollar. Even after half dime production resumed in 1829, in fact, this denomination often played second fiddle to others (again namely the half dollar), and all issues of the type are known in numerous die marriages and die states that point to irregular production schedules and general sloppiness on the part of Mint employees when producing these coins. (PCGS 4276) Choice Brilliant Uncirculated