Capped Bust $5 (1807 - 1834)

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Capped Bust $5 Gold Coin (1807–1834): A Numismatic Treasure

The Capped Bust $5 Half Eagle is a cornerstone of early U.S. gold coinage, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and enduring historical significance. Minted during a transformative period in American history, these coins are highly sought after for their rarity, artistic design, and investment potential.

Key Specifications

  • Designer: John Reich
  • Issue Dates: 1807–1834
  • Composition: 91.67% gold, 8.33% copper
  • Diameter: 25 mm (1807–1829), 22.5 mm (1829–1834)
  • Weight: 8.75 grams (135.03 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Business Strike Mintage: 1,784,625 (combined)
  • Proof Mintage: Fewer than 150

Capped Bust Half Eagle Overview

Type 1: Capped Bust, Large Diameter (1807–1812)

  • Obverse Design: Miss Liberty faces left, wearing a cloth cap inscribed LIBERTY, flanked by seven stars on the left and six on the right.
  • Reverse Design: An eagle perches on a palm branch, clutching three arrows. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM appears on a ribbon above, with the denomination 5 D. and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircling the design.

Rarity and Collectibility:

  • With a total mintage of 399,013, these coins are rare by modern standards, but type collectors can find examples in grades ranging from Very Fine (VF) to About Uncirculated (AU).
  • Uncirculated coins, often with frosty finishes, occasionally appear at auction, particularly during the sale of significant collections.

Type 2: Modified Capped Bust (1813–1834)

  • Obverse Design: A revised portrait of Miss Liberty shows only the head and neck, now encircled by stars. The date is positioned below.
  • Reverse Design: Similar to the earlier type, featuring the same eagle and denomination layout.

Design Modifications:

  • Coins minted from 1813 to 1829 retained the 25 mm diameter.
  • In 1829, under William Kneass, the diameter was reduced to 22.5 mm, and other minor adjustments were made to improve striking quality.

Rarity and Collectibility:

  • Mintage totaled 1,385,612, yet surviving examples are exceedingly rare due to widespread melting during the 1820s and 1830s, when the coin’s gold value exceeded its face value.
  • The most accessible dates for collectors include 1813, 1814/3, 1818, and 1820, though even these command significant premiums.

Why Collect Capped Bust $5 Gold Coins?

  1. Historical Significance: These coins represent the economic evolution of the early United States, minted during an era of growth and transformation.
  2. Artistic Design: John Reich’s intricate designs reflect the sophistication of early American coinage.
  3. Rarity: Extensive melting has rendered these coins exceptionally rare, making them prized assets for collectors and investors alike.
  4. Investment Potential: With consistent demand and historical allure, these coins often fetch premium prices at auctions.

Secure Your Capped Bust $5 Gold Coin at ParadimeCoins.com

Discover the legacy of America’s early gold coinage with Capped Bust $5 Half Eagles at ParadimeCoins.com. Whether you’re building a type set or investing in numismatic treasures, these coins are an invaluable addition to any collection. Explore our curated selection today and own a piece of history!