Capped Bust Half Dime (1829 - 1837)

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The Capped Bust Half Dime is a cornerstone of early U.S. silver coinage, reflecting the artistry and precision of 19th-century minting. Designed by William Kneass, adapting the work of John Reich, this series bridges the gap between the Draped Bust half dimes and later Seated Liberty designs.

Key Specifications

  • Designer: William Kneass (adapted from John Reich)
  • Issue Dates: 1829–1837
  • Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
  • Diameter: 15.5 mm
  • Weight: 1.34 grams (20.8 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Business Strike Mintage: 13,058,700
  • Proof Mintage: Several hundred

Design Features

Obverse

  • Miss Liberty faces left, wearing a cloth cap inscribed LIBERTY.
  • Flowing hair extends to her shoulder, with her neckline draped in a gown fastened by a brooch.
  • Stars encircle the design: seven to the left, six to the right, with the date below.

Reverse

  • Features a bald eagle with a shield on its breast, perched on a branch and holding arrows.
  • E PLURIBUS UNUM is displayed on a scroll above the eagle.
  • Surrounding inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and 5 C., marking the denomination.

Availability and Collectibility

The Capped Bust Half Dime series is an accessible option for collectors, with coins in varying conditions readily available. Here’s what to know:

  • Common Grades: Coins are typically found in Very Good (VG) to Very Fine (VF) condition, with these grades being plentiful.
  • Higher Grades: Extremely Fine (XF) and About Uncirculated (AU) coins are more challenging to locate but still obtainable.
  • Uncirculated Specimens: Mint State examples are scarcer, particularly Gem Uncirculated pieces, which are considered elusive.
  • Well-Struck Coins: Most issues display excellent strike quality, making it easier for collectors to find examples with sharp design details.

Notable Varieties and Minting Highlights

  1. 1834 Backwards "3" Variety

    • This intriguing error features a backward 3 in the date, later corrected. While overlooked historically, it is a standout collectible today.

  2. Uniform Design Across Dates

    • The design remains consistent across all years, with minor variations in lettering sizes. This consistency makes the series appealing for both date and type collectors.

  3. Market Trends:

    • In the 1970s, a small hoard of Choice Uncirculated 1835 half dimes surfaced, offering collectors a glimpse into the rarity of pristine examples.

Historical Context

The Capped Bust Half Dime reintroduced the denomination after a 23-year hiatus (1806–1828), filling a void in small silver coinage. Its design mirrored the popular Capped Bust motif used on half dollars, showcasing continuity across U.S. denominations.

Collecting Tips for Capped Bust Half Dimes

  • Grade Selection: Choose pieces that balance your budget with the sharpness of design details. High-grade examples, especially in Mint State, command premiums.
  • Variety Collecting: Look for rare varieties like the 1834 backward "3" for added interest in your collection.
  • Historical Appeal: This series represents the evolution of early U.S. coinage, making it a valuable addition to any collection focusing on 19th-century coins.

Shop Capped Bust Half Dimes at ParadimeCoins.com

Explore our selection of Capped Bust Half Dimes from 1829–1837, offering a range of grades to suit every collector's needs. From well-preserved circulated examples to elusive Mint State pieces, ParadimeCoins.com is your trusted source for historic U.S. coinage. Add a piece of American history to your collection today!