1880 Spain 50 Centimos Pair
The Only Known Proof Striking In Silver
NGC Proof 66
The Only Known Gilt Copper Obverse Die Trial
NGC MS 64
BOTH ARE UNIQUE
SOLD

The unique proof was struck in silver at the Madrid Mint. It is in gem condition and has beautiful original toning and is pedigreed to the world famous Huntington Collection. It weighs 2.5 grams, has a diameter of 18 mm and was struck in .835 silver. This proof striking is not listed in Krause or any other references and is the only one known to the numismatic community.

The unique obverse die trial was also stuck at the Madrid Mint, in copper gilt. Only the obverse die was used so the reverse is uniface. The design of this obverse die trial was adopted as the official design to strike the silver 50 Centimos for circulation and to strike this unique silver proof coin as well. A few minor modifications were made to the portrait after this unique obverse die trial was struck.

This incredible pair of unique Spanish 1880 50 Centimos are authenticated and certified by NGC. These two strikings were most likely presented to King Alfonso XII, whose portrait appears on the obverse.

Having dealt in mint errors, patterns and die trials for over 40 years as a professional numismatist, It is my opinion that both of these unique strikings are part of the history of the production of the Spanish 1880 50 Centimos coinage.