Numismatic

1826 Capped Bust Half Dollar XF-40 PCGS

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In the early decades of the United States, the half dollar was a cornerstone of daily commerce. This silver specimen, minted in Philadelphia in 1826, showcases the artistry of early American coinage. Containing approximately 0.3866 troy ounces of silver, this coin has survived nearly two centuries, bearing a grade of Extremely Fine 40 (XF-40) from a major certification service. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a draped cap inscribed with her name. Thirteen stars surround her, representing the original colonies, with the date 1826 placed below. This design captures the aesthetic ideals of a young republic finding its visual identity. On the reverse, an eagle holds an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing the nation's desire for peace and readiness for defense. A scroll above the eagle displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the surrounding inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the face value of 50 C. This coin represents one of the 4,004,180 half dollars struck at the Philadelphia Mint that year, serving as a tangible link to the era of early American currency.