Numismatic

1826 Bust Half Dollar Good

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The year 1826 marked a fascinating era in early American coining, represented beautifully by this silver half dollar. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this fifty-cent piece is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing approximately 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. Even in a well-circulated Good condition, the coin retains the unmistakable character of early nineteenth-century United States currency. The obverse presents a classic profile of Lady Liberty. Her draped bust is depicted facing right, wearing a cap inscribed with the word Liberty, surrounded by stars and the 1826 date at the bottom. This design, created by John Reich, served as a staple of American pocket change during the early decades of the republic. On the reverse, Reich's detailed heraldic eagle dominates the center. The eagle is shown with a protective shield draped across its chest, clutching an olive branch of peace in one talon and a bundle of arrows representing strength in the other. Below this patriotic display is the denomination, marked as 50 C., reminding us of the practical role this silver coin played in daily commerce.