1833 1/2C, BN
The 1833 Half Cent, also known as the 1833 1/2C, BN (Regular Strike), is a fascinating specimen for numismatists and collectors. Part of the Classic Head series, this coin is struck in bronze and has garnered attention both for its scarcity and historical value. The "BN" designation indicates the coin's original brown coloring as per the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) classification.
Mintage and Mint Details
Mint : The 1833 Half Cent was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the sole mint for U.S. coins at the time.
Mintage : The reported mintage for the 1833 1/2C is 103,000. It's important to note that the mintage numbers don't always directly correlate with the rarity since many coins were melted or otherwise lost over time.
PCGS Number : The PCGS number for this coin is 1162.
Rarity and Historical Significance The 1833 Half Cent is considered a moderately scarce coin, particularly in higher grades. With its relatively low mintage, this coin is sought after by collectors interested in assembling a complete set of Classic Head Half Cents. The Classic Head design itself, created by Chief Engraver William Kneass, ran from 1809 to 1836 and is known for its more refined representation compared to earlier Liberty depictions. The year 1833 falls in an era when the Half Cent was losing its utilitarian appeal. Transactions involving these coins were dwindling, and they were seldom seen in circulation post-1830s, contributing to their scarcity today.
Values and Sales The value of an 1833 1/2C, BN can vary significantly based on its condition, with higher-grade examples fetching premium prices. According to recent sales:
Good (G-4) : Prices for coins in this condition range from $50 to $75.
Fine (F-12) : Can easily reach $150.
Extremely Fine (EF-40) : These command values upwards of $300.
Mint State (MS-60 and above) : Prices dramatically increase, sometimes exceeding $2,500 for exceptionally preserved examples.
Auction records have shown that some MS-65 graded specimens have crossed the $5,000 mark, reflecting their desirability among high-end collectors.
Numismatist Insights From a numismatist's point of view, the 1833 Half Cent provides a lens to view the changing economic landscape of early 19th-century America. These coins are a bridge between the practical necessities of early U.S. coinage and the evolving monetary system that would soon favor larger denominations. Collectors also enjoy these coins for their rich details and classic American design that captures Liberty in a dignified profile. They remain an integral collectible for those interested in U.S. numismatic history, capturing the transition from primitive minting techniques to more sophisticated processes. For collectors, each acquisition of an 1833 Half Cent isn't only an investment but a piece of American history that continues to tell its story through generations. Given their historical significance, rarity in higher conditions, and elegant design, 1833 Half Cents hold an enduring appeal among collectors seeking a tangible connection to the past.
