Numismatic

1809 Bust Half Dollar XF

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Struck in the early years of the United States, this 1809 silver half dollar represents a classic era of American coinage. Minted in Philadelphia, the coin contains 0.3868 troy ounces of silver, with a purity of 0.8924. It stands as a fascinating survivor from a total mintage of 1,405,810 pieces, showcasing the craftsmanship of early nineteenth-century coin production. The obverse displays a profile of Lady Liberty facing right, her hair draped beneath a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Beneath her portrait, the date 1809 is clearly visible. This design, created by John Reich, captures the youthful spirit of the growing nation. On the reverse, an American eagle is depicted with a shield across its chest, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons to represent peace and preparedness. Above the eagle, a scroll bears the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the surrounding inscription reads UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. At the bottom, the denomination is indicated by the mark 50 C.