1804 (1860s) Draped Bust Cent. Private Restrike. Breen-1761. MS-63 BN (PCGS). CAC.

1804 (1860s) Draped Bust Cent. Private Restrike. Breen-1761. MS-63 BN (PCGS). CAC.，A handsome example of this intriguing variety, both sides are richly toned in deep orange-copper patina. Overall smooth in appearance as far as post-production blemishes are concerned, with all major design elements clear. The so-called 1804 Restrike has always been a "fun" item to add to a collection of copper cents, along with the somewhat related 1823 Restrike. A generous amount of mystery surrounds these coins. Years ago it was popular to call this and certain other coins "Mickley Restrikes," but in extensive reading about Joseph J. Mickley and his activities, Q. David Bowers has found that myths are often more prevalent than truth. For example, Walter Breen writes that in 1827 Mickley visited the Philadelphia Mint and obtained four 1827 Proof quarter dollars at face value. However, no substantiation for this has ever been found. "Mickley Restrike" has been assigned to the 1811 half cent and also the present 1804 cent, but although Mickley had many discarded Mint dies, not a shred of evidence has pointed to Mickley ever owning a coining press and striking coins or, for that matter, commissioning them to have been struck. Tracking down the 1804 "Restrike" would be a good project for anyone writing a feature article for <em>Penny Wise</em>. These coins were known by 1860. One account mentions that a Mr. Miller may have made them, but further information has not been learned. In any event, returning to the present offering, this is a wonderful Choice example of one of the most curious issues in the early copper series.，，