Capped Bust Half Dollar (1807 - 1839)

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The Capped Bust Half Dollar, designed by John Reich, is a significant milestone in U.S. coinage, symbolizing a transition in artistry and production techniques. Introduced in 1807, this design replaced the earlier Draped Bust motif and became a cornerstone of American silver coinage for over three decades.

Key Details

  • Designer: John Reich (Lettered Edge), Christian Gobrecht (Reeded Edge)
  • Issue Dates: 1807–1839
  • Composition:
    • 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper (1807–1836)
    • 90% silver, 10% copper (1836–1839)
  • Diameter:
    • 32.5 mm (Lettered Edge)
    • 30 mm (Reeded Edge)
  • Weight:
    • 13.48 grams (208.02 grains, Lettered Edge)
    • 13.36 grams (206.17 grains, Reeded Edge)
  • Edge:
    • Lettered FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR (1807–1836)
    • Reeded (1836–1839)
  • Mintages:
    • Lettered Edge: 82,339,124
    • Reeded Edge: 8,748,992

Design Overview

Type 1: Lettered Edge (1807–1836)

The Lettered Edge Capped Bust Half Dollar is one of the most widely collected early U.S. coin series.

  • Obverse:
    • Features Miss Liberty facing left, wearing a cap inscribed LIBERTY, with her tresses flowing to her shoulder and a draped neckline secured by a brooch.
    • Stars flank Liberty (7 on the left, 6 on the right), with the date below.
  • Reverse:
    • Depicts an eagle perched on an olive branch holding three arrows, with E PLURIBUS UNUM on a scroll above.
    • Surrounding inscriptions include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and 50 C.

Collectibility:

  • Most dates are accessible in grades from Fine to Extremely Fine, with AU pieces relatively common in the later years (1820s–1830s).
  • Uncirculated coins are scarcer, and superb examples are rare.
  • The series is popular for die variety collectors, thanks to Al C. Overton’s 1967 publication on early half dollar die varieties, which remains a foundational reference for enthusiasts.

Type 2: Reeded Edge, 50 CENTS (1836–1837)

The Reeded Edge Capped Bust Half Dollar marked the advent of steam-powered coin presses at the Philadelphia Mint.

  • Obverse:
    • Retains the Capped Bust design with slight refinements by Christian Gobrecht.
  • Reverse:
    • The denomination is inscribed as 50 CENTS, with other details similar to earlier designs.

Collectibility:

  • The 1836 mintage is limited to just 1,200 pieces, making it rare in all grades.
  • The 1837 mintage is more plentiful, with coins readily available from Good to Extremely Fine, though AU and Uncirculated pieces are scarce.

Type 3: Reeded Edge, HALF DOL (1838–1839)

The final iteration of the Capped Bust Half Dollar introduced the revised reverse inscription, HALF DOL.

  • Obverse:
    • Features slight modifications to the Liberty design.
  • Reverse:
    • Displays an updated eagle design and thicker lettering.

Collectibility:

  • The 1838-O, the first branch mint half dollar from New Orleans, is a celebrated rarity, with only 20 pieces struck.
  • More common issues, such as the Philadelphia coins from 1838 and 1839, are available in grades from Very Good to Extremely Fine, with Uncirculated examples being significantly rarer.

Why Collect Capped Bust Half Dollars?

  1. Historical Significance: These coins bridge the early and modern eras of U.S. coinage, representing advancements in design and minting technology.
  2. Variety Collecting: The series offers an extensive array of die varieties, adding depth for advanced collectors.
  3. Affordability: While rare issues command premiums, many dates are accessible for collectors in mid-to-high grades.

Secure Your Piece of History with ParadimeCoins.com

At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer a curated selection of Capped Bust Half Dollars, including both Lettered Edge and Reeded Edge varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your numismatic journey, our inventory provides expertly graded coins to suit every collection. Explore our offerings and add a timeless treasure to your portfolio today!