Draped Bust Half Cent (1800 - 1808)

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Explore Draped Bust Half Cents (1800–1808): A Rare Numismatic Treasure

The Draped Bust Half Cent, designed by Robert Scot, is a historic and collectible U.S. coin minted between 1800 and 1808. Featuring elegant designs and unique varieties, these copper coins capture the artistry and challenges of early American coinage.

Key Features:

  • Composition: Copper
  • Diameter: 23.5 mm
  • Weight: 5.44 grams
  • Edge: Plain
  • Mintage: 3,416,950

Design Details:

  • Obverse: Miss Liberty faces right with flowing hair tied by a ribbon, draped neckline, and LIBERTY above.
  • Reverse: An open wreath surrounds "HALF CENT," with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "1/200" at the border.

Collectability and Rarity:

Draped Bust Half Cents are relatively available in grades from Good to Very Fine. Coins in Extremely Fine or About Uncirculated (AU) condition are scarcer but obtainable, particularly for the 1804 and 1806 dates. Uncirculated specimens, however, are rare and often traceable to early hoards.

  • Notable Varieties:
    • 1802/0 Reverse of 1800: Among the rarest, with fewer than 20 specimens known.
    • 1808/7 Overdate: Scarce in all grades and a major rarity in Extremely Fine or better.
    • 1804 Spiked Chin: Features an enigmatic spike on Miss Liberty’s chin, adding intrigue to the variety.

Historical Context:

Following a two-year hiatus, the Draped Bust design replaced earlier styles, marking a shift in U.S. coinage aesthetics. Minted during an era of sporadic copper shortages, many coins were struck using planchets from spoiled large cents or Talbot, Allum & Lee tokens, creating fascinating numismatic anomalies.

Why Collect Draped Bust Half Cents?

These coins offer a glimpse into the early years of the U.S. Mint, showcasing artistry, craftsmanship, and minting challenges. Whether you're pursuing rare varieties or a Fine to Extremely Fine example for a type set, Draped Bust Half Cents remain a compelling addition to any collection.

Explore our curated selection of Draped Bust Half Cents at ParadimeCoins.com. From rare overdates to high-grade examples, we provide collectors with access to some of the most sought-after coins in early American numismatics. Start or enhance your collection today!