DRAPED BUST HALF DIMES (1796-1805)
Images courtesy of Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles
Draped Bust, Small Eagle Half Dime 1796-1797
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Draped Bust, Heraldic Eagle Half Dime 1800-1805
Draped Bust Half Dime Facts:
The half dime was one of the original denominations introduced almost as soon as the United States coinage system began. The half dime denomination was authorized April 2, 1792, by Congress, making it one of the initial denominations authorized for currency in the United States.
The Small Eagle reverse was produced for two years, and in 1800 the Heraldic Eagle reverse design was used.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Designer: Robert Scot
Diameter: 16.5 millimeters
Metal content:
Silver - 89.2%
Copper - 10.8%
Weight: 21 grains (1.3 grams)
Edge: Reeded
Mint mark: None (all examples of this date and type were struck at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Mint)
Cherry Picker's List:
1796 Look for the 1796/5 and LIKERTY varieties.
1797 Several varieties, including obverses with 13, 15, and 16 Stars.
1800 Look for the LIBEKTY variety.
1802 Extremely rare.
