1898 Barber Half Dollar 50C PCGS PR 67 DCAM

A Stunning Gem from the Barber Era: 1898 Barber Half Dollar, PCGS Proof 67 Deep Cameo (DCAM)
Imagine holding a tangible piece of American history, struck with meticulous care over a century ago. This exceptional 1898 Barber Half Dollar isn't just a coin; it's a breathtaking work of numismatic art, certified in the highest echelons of quality by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). Designed by Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, the Barber coinage (dimes, quarters, and half dollars) circulated from 1892 to 1916. The obverse features a dignified portrayal of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap and a laurel wreath. The word 'LIBERTY' graces her headband, while 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and the date '1898' surround the design. What elevates this coin even further is the prestigious Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation from PCGS. This indicates a dramatic contrast between the deeply frosted devices (the raised design elements like Liberty's head and the eagle) and the intensely reflective, mirror-like fields. The frosted areas appear almost white or light gray, standing out boldly against the dark, liquid-like surfaces. This visual contrast creates a stunning three-dimensional effect that is highly sought after by collectors.

Key Highlights:

• Year of Issue: 1898
• Denomination: Half Dollar (50C)
• Mint Location: Philadelphia (indicated by the absence of a mintmark)
• Grade: Proof 67 (PR67) by PCGS
• Designation: Deep Cameo (DCAM) by PCGS
• Obverse: The obverse of the coin features a right-facing portrait of Liberty, inspired by classical Greek goddesses. She is wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with a laurel wreath, and a small band inscribed with 'LIBERTY' is visible above her forehead. The motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' curves along the upper periphery, while thirteen stars (six to the left and seven to the right) encircle the portrait, representing the original thirteen colonies. The date, '1898,' is positioned at the bottom center. The designer's initial, a small 'B' for Charles E. Barber, is located at the truncation of Liberty's neck.
• Reverse: The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle, the national symbol of the United States, with outstretched wings. The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon (representing peace) and a bundle of arrows in its left talon (symbolizing strength). A shield with vertical bars and a horizontal chief covers the eagle's chest. In its beak, the eagle holds a ribbon inscribed with the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM.' The inscription 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' arcs along the upper periphery, and the denomination 'HALF DOLLAR' is at the bottom. Above the eagle's head is an arc of thirteen stars. There is no mintmark on this coin, as it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.