History of the Capped Bust Half Dollar
The Capped Bust half dollar was the big silver coin of early America — banks used them for reserves, which is why so many survived in decent condition compared with smaller denominations. Struck from hand-made dies, every year offers a rich menu of die varieties cataloged by "Overton numbers," and variety collectors form one of the hobby’s most devoted communities.
Coins through 1836 have distinctive lettered edges reading FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR. The short reeded-edge subtype of 1836–1839 includes the rare 1838-O, one of the great New Orleans rarities with about 20 struck.
The Capped Bust half was struck from 1807 to 1839 in 89.24% silver (lettered edge era). The design is the work of John Reich. Each coin weighs 13.48 grams. Production took place at Philadelphia, plus New Orleans in 1838–39.
How much is a Capped Bust half worth?
Prices for the Capped Bust half move with the collector market and with the price of precious metals. Use the ranges below as a starting point for problem-free examples, not as a guarantee.
For a live market check, recent sold listings beat out-of-date price guides every time. CoinVault Pro combines Numista catalog data with real eBay sold prices for every coin it recognizes, so you can see what buyers are actually paying this month — not what a book claimed years ago.
- Good (G-4): $60–$85
- Fine (F-12): $95–$140
- Extremely Fine (XF-40): $250–$400
- MS-63: $1,200–$2,500
How to identify a genuine Capped Bust Half Dollar
Authentication starts with the basics: weight, diameter, design details and the way the surfaces look. For the Capped Bust half, check the following:
If anything feels off — the weight is wrong, the details are mushy, or the surfaces look cast rather than struck — get a second opinion before buying or selling. Valuable dates are exactly the coins counterfeiters target most.
- Lettered edge (through 1836) vs reeded edge (1836–39) separates the two major subtypes.
- The 1815/2 is the series key; beware altered 1817 dates.
- Overton variety attribution can add significant value to scarce die marriages.
Check your Capped Bust half with CoinVault Pro
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