Numismatic

1828 Bust Half Dollar Fine (Sq Base 2, Lg 8's)

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This United States silver half dollar from 1828 offers a fascinating glimpse into early American minting history. Struck with a silver purity of 0.8924, this coin contains 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a specific era of hand-engraved dies, which resulted in distinct varieties that collectors love to study and identify today. This particular specimen is recognized by its Square Base 2 and Large 8s in the date. The obverse of the coin displays a classic left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, her hair draped gently, wearing a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars surround her, representing the original colonies, with the date 1828 positioned at the bottom. Designed by John Reich, this depiction of Liberty was a staple of early nineteenth-century American coinage. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle is depicted with a patriotic shield across its chest. The eagle holds symbols of both peace and defense, clutching an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other. Above the eagle, a scroll bears the national motto, E PLURIBUS UNUM. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA wraps around the upper border, while the denomination 50 C. is stamped at the bottom, marking this half dollar's place in the nation's early commerce.