Numismatic

1808/7 Bust Half Dollar VF

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In the early years of the United States Mint, coin production was an art of manual precision, leading to fascinating varieties that capture the imagination of observers today. The 1808 Bust Half Dollar, struck in Philadelphia, is a remarkable example of this era's craftsmanship. Minted in 0.8924 fine silver with a total silver content of 0.3868 troy ounces, this fifty-cent piece carries the distinct design work of John Reich, showcasing the early artistic direction of the nation's coinage. The obverse of the coin presents a classic profile of Lady Liberty, her hair draped gently, facing right beneath the word LIBERTY. Below her portrait is the date of manufacture, which bears the evidence of an overdate, where the digit 8 was engraved over a remaining 7 in the die. This subtle detail serves as a direct link to the resourcefulness of early mint workers who reused coin dies across calendar years. On the reverse, a detailed heraldic eagle is depicted holding a shield, a clutch of arrows, and an olive branch, symbolizing the dual American ideals of strength and peace. Above the eagle, a scroll displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the surrounding inscription reads UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. At the very bottom, the denomination is indicated by 50 C., representing fifty cents. This particular specimen survives in Very Fine condition, preserving the bold details of Reich's historic engraving for modern observers to appreciate.