Capped Bust Half Dollar 1807-1839

The Capped Bust Half Dollar is a United States coin that was minted from 1807 to 1839. It went through several design variations during its production years, reflecting changes in minting technology and the artistic preferences of the time. Here is an overview of the history of the Capped Bust Half Dollar:

The Capped Bust design was created by John Reich, a German-born engraver who worked for the United States Mint. It featured the portrait of Liberty facing right, wearing a cloth cap (often mistaken for a Phrygian cap) with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed on the band. The reverse side of the coin depicted an eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching arrows and an olive branch.

In 1813, the design of the Capped Bust Half Dollar was modified slightly. The portrait of Liberty was altered to show a more matronly appearance, with her cap now resembling a bonnet. The reverse design remained mostly unchanged, featuring the eagle and shield motif.

In 1836, the Capped Bust Half Dollar underwent another significant change. The edge of the coin was reeded, meaning it had small grooves encircling the circumference, replacing the previous lettered edge that bore the inscription "FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR" and other variations.

Throughout the production years of the Capped Bust Half Dollar, there were different varieties and minor design modifications. These variations included changes to the size of letters, the placement of stars, and other details. Some of these varieties are highly sought after by collectors, and certain years or mint marks are considered rare and valuable.

The Capped Bust Half Dollar was eventually replaced by the Seated Liberty design, which made its debut in 1839. The Seated Liberty Half Dollar featured Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole with a liberty cap. The decision to replace the Capped Bust design was driven by a desire to modernize and improve the artistic appeal of American coinage.

Today, Capped Bust Half Dollars are highly collectible and are appreciated for their historical significance and artistic beauty. They serve as a reminder of the early years of the United States Mint and the development of American coinage.

 

Key Dates

1807 (Large Stars):  The inaugural year of the Capped Bust Half Dollar series is considered a key date. The 1807 half dollar has a distinctive design with large stars on the obverse (front) of the coin.

1815: The 1815 Capped Bust Half Dollar is particularly scarce and valuable. It has a low mintage, and surviving specimens are highly sought after by collectors.

1822: The 1822 Capped Bust Half Dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the series. It has an extremely low mintage, and only a few examples are known to exist. The 1822 half dollar is highly coveted by collectors and often commands high prices at auctions.

1827 (Square Base 2): The 1827 Capped Bust Half Dollar is notable for its variety known as the "Square Base 2." In this variety, the number 2 in the date appears squared at the base, distinguishing it from the more common "Curl Base 2" variety.

1838-O: The 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar was minted in New Orleans and is considered a key date for collectors. It has a limited mintage and is challenging to find in high grades.

1839 (No Drapery): The 1839 Capped Bust Half Dollar without drapery is a significant variety. In the initial production of this year, the Liberty figure lacked drapery on her arm. However, the design was modified later in the year, adding drapery, making the no drapery variety more desirable.