Silver Coinage

The seated liberty half dimes are appreciated for their monetary value to collectors, and also the artistic quality. The original design was created in the second half of the 1830’s, but alterations to the original design were made just one year later. In one form or another, the design continued to be used for the duration of the half dime denomination.

The design of the seated liberty was that of a robed liberty sitting on a rock. It is important to note that she sits on a rock, because the rock has symbolism in the founding of our country. A shield is placed in front of her that she balances with her left hand. She holds a pole with a Liberty cap placed on top, as a symbol of freedom.

For the first year of issue, there were no stars present on the obverse design. This would be changed just one year later when stars were added. Other alternations would include adjusting the drapery of Miss Liberty’s clothing. Later in the series, there would be arrows and rays placed within the design to denote changes in composition.

The history and meaning of coins is extremely significant, and collectors pride themselves in their knowledge while in pursuit of even more information. The pursuit of information leads them to learn the about the artists, the history use of the mints, and to the meaning of the tiniest symbol that would escape the average person.

When looking for an interesting and historical series of silver coinage to collect, not too many people would first think of the Capped Bust Half Dimes. However, this early series of the five cent denomination carries classic elements of beauty, while still remaining approachable to collectors or modest budgets.

At the time the series made its debut, the half dime had not been minted for a period of 22 years. Much had changed since the prior series. The second Philadelphia Mint had opened and improved technology was used. This included the closed collar, which allowed mass production to take place and resulted in more standardized specifications. Accordingly, the new series featured considerably higher mintages than the prior. For the year 1829, there were more half dimes produced than in all prior years of operation for the Mint.

Despite being such an early series, the higher mintages mean the coins remain more or less available to collectors. Although there is as always much competition for the highest grades, lower mint state or about uncirculated coins can be acquired for a few hundred dollars. There are no elusive key dates for the entire series, making it possible to acquire an entire collection with a modest budget.

The Capped Bust Half Dimes will comprise of just nine different coins with dates ranging from 1829 to 1837. All coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with the same design.

Did you know that the five cent denomination was not always the nickel? In fact, the nickel as we know it today would not be introduced until long after the monetary system within the United States was established.

Originally, the five cent coin was known as the half disme, pronounced “deem.” The coin was basically half the weight and value of the disme or dime. Under the Coinage Act of 1792, the denomination had 20 and 4/5 grains of standard silver, which made for 18 and 9/16 grains of pure silver. Famously, some half disme patterns were struck in 1792, although it is known that some circulated. Legend has it that these coins were minted from silver personally deposited by George Washington.

The first larger scale production of the denomination took place in 1794 when the Flowing Hair design was used. Coins were minted bearing the dates 1794 or 1795, with a total production of 86,416.

The half disme remained in use for more than five decades, however there were some complaints about its very small size, which led it to become easily lost. Also, when the market price of silver rose, the denomination became unprofitable to produce. Eventually, the solution was found in a five cent piece struck from a composition of copper and nickel, first used in 1866. The same composition continues to be used to the present day.