Numismatic

1823 Bust Half Dollar Good

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The year 1823 marked a fascinating era in early American coinage, represented beautifully by this United States half dollar. Struck in Philadelphia from 89.24 percent silver, this fifty-cent piece carries a total of 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. Even in Good condition, the coin retains the unmistakable character of early nineteenth-century American currency, offering a tangible connection to the nation's formative years. On the obverse, the profile of Lady Liberty faces right, her hair draped gently, adorned with a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Beneath her portrait, the date 1823 is clearly visible. This design, created by John Reich, captures the classical aesthetic that defined the United States Mint's early output. The reverse side presents a powerful heraldic eagle with a patriotic shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle firmly grasps an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, representing the dual national ideals of peace and defense. Above the eagle, the scroll displays the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, surrounded by the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.