Numismatic

1822 Bust Half Dollar VF

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The year 1822 saw the creation of a silver half dollar that showcases the early artistry of the United States Mint. Struck at the Philadelphia mint, this coin is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing approximately 0.3868 troy ounces of the precious metal. It represents a fascinating era of American coinage, with a total production of 1,559,573 pieces for this specific year. The front of the coin presents a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a capped head covering. The word LIBERTY is clearly inscribed upon her band, with the date 1822 positioned directly beneath her bust. This elegant depiction was created by designer John Reich, whose work defined the look of early nineteenth-century American silver currency. On the reverse, a detailed heraldic eagle dominates the design. The bird holds a protective shield across its chest, while its talons grasp an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, symbolizing peace and readiness. The traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is displayed, and the denomination is marked at the bottom as 50 C., indicating its fifty-cent face value.