1821 Capped Bust Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$115,000 SP67 03-06-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1821 Capped Bust Half Dollar represents a Philadelphia Mint issue from the Capped Bust Half Dollars 1807-1839 series. With a mintage of 1.3 million, this is a less common issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% of production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a mob cap or turban, designed by John Reich who worked as an indentured servant at the Mint and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM within a motto scroll. Struck during a period of national unity and westward expansion following the War of 1812, as the U.S. grew in confidence and territory. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $111 to $5.0K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper, weighing 13.5 grams, 32.5 mm in diameter, with a lettered: fifty cents or half a dollar edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6128.