90% Silver Capped Bust Half Dollar in Average Circulated Condition
When the United States first set about making coins for the country’s commerce, there was plenty of discussion about how they should look. European coins typically contained a portrait of their king or queen, but that wouldn’t do for the U.S. So when the first coins were made, they carried a portrait of the mythical Miss Liberty to let the world know the nation was beholden to no sovereign.
Miss Liberty and the Capped Bust Coin Face Design
Miss Liberty first appeared with flowing hair on the original coins struck in 1792, but within a few years, the public objected to the design as too informal, so a new design with Liberty wearing a cap was introduced, first appearing on the half dollar in 1807. She also was turned to face left instead of right.
The coin was designed by John Reich, an immigrant German engraver who had been recommended by President Thomas Jefferson. Considered one of the more beautiful U.S. coin designs, Liberty wears a Phrygian cap symbolic of the American Revolution with a band at its base inscribed Liberty, her hair falling to her shoulder. She is draped in a gown secured by a brooch on her shoulder. Seven stars are on the left edge of the coin and six are on the right, and the date is below the bust.
Reverse Face Design and Coin Production
The reverse depicts an eagle perched on an olive branch and holding three arrows. E Pluribus Unum is inscribed in capital letters on a scroll above the eagle, and United States of America, also in caps, circles the coin’s edge surrounding the eagle wing-to-wing. It was one of the first U.S. coins to state its denomination, with 50 C. engraved below the eagle. As was customary of all silver coins, the Capped Bust half dollar was 90% pure silver.
The Capped Bust half dollar was produced from 1807 to 1836 and is particularly popular with collectors for the variety of imperfections and dies used during its long run. While pristine examples are difficult to find and command very high prices, The Great American Coin Company® is fortunate to have recently come across a large selection of 19th Century Capped Bust Half Dollars in average circulated condition dated from 1807 through 1836. Some of these coins go back over 200 years and are getting increasingly hard to find.
Collect the 90% Silver Genuine Capped Bust Half Dollar Quickly!
The coins consist of 90% silver, and are guaranteed to be genuine. All of the coins for sale are randomly chosen and can be from any date between 1807-1836. They’re an important part of any collection and are an inexpensive way to add increasingly rare historic coins to a portfolio. But act now, because supplies are limited and are sure to sell out soon.
The Great American Coin Company® offers a wide selection of collectible U.S. coins and paper money as well as currency from around the world. We keep adding unique items as they become available, so be sure to visit us frequently. And while you’re there, be sure to visit our blog for interesting and timely articles about currency and precious metals.
