Capped Bust Half Dime Values
How Much Capped Bust Half Dimes are Worth: Capped Bust Half Dime Values & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1829 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $90 | $107 | $175 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,525 |
| 1830 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $90 | $107 | $137 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,275 |
| 1831 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $90 | $107 | $180 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,275 |
| 1832 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $100 | $107 | $137 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,275 |
| 1833 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $90 | $107 | $137 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,129 | $4,275 |
| 1834 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $90 | $107 | $137 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,650 |
| 1835 | (None) Phil | Large Date, Large 5C | -- | $90 | $107 | $137 | $212 | $309 | $544 | $1,079 | $1,477 | $3,070 | $4,275 |
| 1835 | (None) Phil | Large Date, Small 5C | -- | $100 | $117 | $149 | $237 | $321 | $606 | $1,179 | $2,170 | $3,900 | $14,250 |
| 1835 | (None) Phil | Small Date, Large 5C | -- | $100 | $117 | $149 | $249 | $346 | $656 | $1,332 | $1,835 | $4,208 | $7,750 |
| 1835 | (None) Phil | Small Date, Small 5C | -- | $100 | $117 | $149 | $212 | $284 | $581 | $1,054 | $1,427 | $3,070 | $4,650 |
| 1836 | (None) Phil | Large 5C | -- | $95 | $114 | $160 | $212 | $296 | $581 | $1,054 | $1,527 | $3,975 | $9,125 |
| 1836 | (None) Phil | Small 5C | -- | $95 | $112 | $144 | $224 | $296 | $606 | $1,179 | $1,627 | $3,320 | $7,800 |
| 1836 | (None) Phil | 3/Inverted 3 | -- | $115 | $144 | $197 | $291 | $412 | $714 | $1,535 | $2,240 | $6,050 | $11,200 |
| 1837 | (None) Phil | Large 5C | -- | $100 | $117 | $149 | $237 | $334 | $606 | $1,179 | $1,840 | $6,250 | $14,250 |
| 1837 | (None) Phil | Small 5C | -- | $169 | $220 | $285 | $440 | $780 | $2,158 | $3,238 | $7,475 | $12,175 | $19,250 |
Overview
The Capped Bust Half Dime, minted from 1829 to 1837, is a significant piece of early American coinage. Designed by William Kneass, the obverse features a left-facing Liberty wearing a capped bonnet, while the reverse showcases a heraldic eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, with a shield on its chest. Collectors highly value Capped Bust Half Dimes for their short mintage period, historical importance, and key date rarities, making them an essential addition to early U.S. coin collections.
History of the Capped Bust Half Dime
The Capped Bust Half Dime was introduced in 1829, reviving the half dime denomination after a 24-year hiatus following the Draped Bust Half Dime (last issued in 1805). The redesign was part of a broader effort by the U.S. Mint to modernize coinage and improve strike quality.
Designed by William Kneass, the coin featured:
- Obverse: A left-facing Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, inscribed ” LIBERTY ” on a ribbon.
- Reverse: A powerful heraldic eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, with a shield on its chest, symbolizing strength and peace.
This series was relatively short-lived and was replaced in 1837 by the Seated Liberty Half Dime, which introduced a more refined and neoclassical design.
Collecting Capped Bust Half Dime Coins
Collectors seek Capped Bust Half Dimes for their classic early American design, relatively low mintages, and key varieties. Many examples circulated extensively, making high-grade specimens particularly rare.
Notable key dates and varieties include:
- 1829 Small & Large Date Varieties – The first-year issue features two distinct date styles.
- 1830 Large 10C & Small 10C – A variety based on the size of the “10 C.” denomination.
- 1833 Repunched Date – A desirable error where numerals were punched multiple times.
- 1835 Small & Large 5C Varieties – Variations in the denomination’s size.
- 1837 Large 5C & Small 5C Varieties – The final year of the series before transitioning to the Seated Liberty design.
Additionally, collectors seek well-struck examples with minimal wear, as early minting techniques often resulted in weak strikes.
Tips for Collectors
- Where to Find Them: Capped Bust Half Dimes are often found at significant coin auctions, estate collections, and high-end coin dealers.
- Key Details to Watch For: Seek sharp Liberty details, strong eagle features, and well-defined date numerals.
- Proper Storage: Store Capped Bust Half Dimes in certified holders or temperature-controlled safes to preserve their condition.
Most Valuable Coin
The 1829 Capped Bust Half Dime Small Date and the 1837 Small 5C variety are among the most sought-after issues in the series. Additionally, well-preserved high-grade examples, especially with proof-like surfaces, can command significant premiums at auction.
Investment Potential
The Capped Bust Half Dime is a substantial investment choice due to its short mintage period, historical importance, and collector demand. Coins such as 1829 Small Date, 1835 Large 5C, and 1837 Small 5C continue to appreciate in value, and high-grade certified examples often command strong interest in the market.
Key Dates and Varieties
Collectors and investors often seek the following key dates and varieties:
- 1829 Small & Large Date – First-year issue, highly collectible.
- 1830 Large 10C & Small 10C – A variety distinguished by different numeral sizes.
- 1833 Repunched Date – A rare and sought-after minting error.
- 1835 Small & Large 5C – Popular varieties based on numeral size.
- 1837 Small 5C & Large 5C – The final issue before transitioning to the Seated Liberty series.
Notable Errors
- Repunched Dates (e.g., 1833) – Some coins feature misaligned or repunched numerals.
- Overdates (e.g., 1829/7) – Some dies were repurposed, leading to visible overdated numerals.
- Weak Strikes – Due to early minting techniques, some issues show weakness in Liberty’s cap and the eagle’s feathers.
Design Features
The Capped Bust Half Dime, designed by William Kneass, features:
- Obverse: A left-facing Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, inscribed ” LIBERTY ” on a ribbon.
- Reverse: A heraldic eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, with a shield at its chest.
Key design elements include:
- Classic Bust Design: A refined version of the earlier Draped Bust style.
- Heraldic Eagle Reverse: Symbolizing national strength and unity.
- Mintmark Placement: No mintmarks were used, as all coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Conclusion
The Capped Bust Half Dime is a historic and collectible U.S. coin, offering collectors a blend of artistry, rarity, and investment potential. With its short series run, key varieties, and early American design, this coin remains a highly sought-after piece of numismatic history. Understanding its rarities, design nuances, and market trends helps collectors make informed decisions when acquiring Capped Bust Half Dimes.