Expert: PAPAJACK - 11/10/2008

Question
I have a 1861 confederate states of america half dol. It has the shield on the front and back.  The only difference is that one side has "half dol" and the other side has "1861".  Ever seen such a thin?

Answer
Hello Phil,                      

This double reverse piece was not listed anywhere in the catalogs as a real coin.
It may have been made after the reverse die was bought by a dealer or it is a copy. Many reproductions have been made throughout the years.
Here are some images;
http://www.csacurrency.com/csacoin/csa50ctb.jpg
http://www.coinfacts.com/confederate_coins/1861_scott_restrike_obv.jpg

No on can say exactly what you have without examining the piece it may just be a token for Civil War reenactments or clubs.  
Sorry I cannot be more help. If you still thing it is a minting defect you can write back with the general location (nearest large cities) and telephone area code or codes and some zip codes in your area, I can direct you to an AMERICAN NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION MEMBER/DEALER near you. They are ethical and trustworthy. Or there is also help at most coin shows.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack