Numismatic

1818 Bust Half Dollar XF

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The year 1818 marked a significant era in early American coinage, represented beautifully by this Capped Bust half dollar. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing 0.3868 troy ounces of the precious metal. With a total mintage of 1,960,322 pieces, it stands as a fascinating survivor of early nineteenth-century commerce. Designed by John Reich, the coin features a classic profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, her hair draped beneath a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Below her portrait, the date 1818 is clearly visible. This side of the coin represents the young nation's ideals of freedom and independence. On the reverse, a detailed eagle is depicted clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, a shield draped across its chest. Above the eagle, the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is displayed, while the surrounding inscription reads UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. At the bottom, the denomination is indicated by the marking 50 C, cementing its place as a cornerstone of early United States currency.