Draped Bust Half Dimes Mintage

November 23, 2011Posted inHalf Dime

The half dime was the smallest silver denomination originally authorized within the American monetary system. The mintages for the Draped Bust Half Dimes remained at relatively low levels throughout the course of the series, creating scarce issues and one significant rarity. A change in the reverse design creates two distinct subtypes.

Draped Bust Half Dime

The obverse design used throughout the course of the series is credited to Robert Scot, although portraitist Gilbert Stuart is said to have provided sketches. Liberty is pictured facing towards the right with her hair bound with a ribbon at the top and falling towards her shoulders. Above is the inscription “Liberty” with stars arranged to the sides and the date below.

Capped Bust Half Dimes Mintage

April 27, 2011Posted inHalf Dime

The mintages of the Capped Bust Half Dime are well above the levels experienced for earlier issues of the denomination. This makes completion of a full set an achievable task for most collectors. The coin series carried a design based on the work of John Reich, but modified by John Kneass. The same basic design was used for the silver coinage of the era.

Capped Bust Half Dime

After a gap of 23 years, the United States Mint once again began producing half dimes. The new series would be struck in slightly smaller diameter, but with a slightly thicker width. The composition of .8924 silver and balance copper remained the same as previously in use. Ultimately, the Capped Bust Half Dimes were struck for only eight years at the second Philadelphia Mint. Several years contain popular varieties listed in the Red Book.

Flowing Hair Half Dimes Mintage

August 4, 2010Posted inHalf Dime

The Flowing Hair Half Dime was the smallest sized silver coin authorized under the Act of April 2, 1792, which established the United States Mint and regulated U.S. coinage. The coin’s design by Robert Scot features Liberty facing right with unbound hair flowing back. The reverse features an eagle with sings spread surrounded by a wreath.

Flowing Hair Half Dime

In accordance with the Mint Act, the coins had a purity of .8924 silver and a weight of 20.8 grams. More than half a century later, the specifications for the denomination would be adjusted with another Mint Act.