Numismatic

1811 Bust Half Dollar VF (Small 8)

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The year 1811 saw the production of a classic American silver coin, the Capped Bust half dollar. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this fifty-cent piece contains 0.3868 troy ounces of silver in an alloy of 0.8924 purity. Out of a total mintage of 1,203,644 pieces, this particular specimen survives in Very Fine condition, showcasing the enduring artistry of early United States coinage. Designed by John Reich, the obverse of the coin presents a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She wears a soft cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY, her hair curling down to her shoulders, surrounded by stars with the date 1811 positioned at the bottom. This specific coin features the Small 8 variety in the date, a detail that catches the eye of keen observers. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle dominates the center. The eagle holds a striped shield on its breast while clutching an olive branch and a bundle of arrows in its talons. Above the eagle, a scroll displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, surrounded by the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This intricate combination of early national symbols makes the half dollar a fascinating window into the design sensibilities of the early nineteenth century.