Numismatic

1828 Bust Half Dollar VF-35 PCGS (Sq 2, Sm 8's, Lg Ltrs)

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The year 1828 was a notable period for United States coinage, and this silver half dollar offers a tangible connection to that era. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint without a mint mark, this piece represents a classic era of early American coining. It is composed of 0.8924 fine silver, containing approximately 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. Having circulated through early American commerce, this specimen is certified in Very Fine 35 condition, preserving its historical design details with a pleasing level of wear. The design of this fifty-cent piece, created by John Reich, showcases a classic profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse, facing left and wearing a capped drape. The reverse features an American eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, with a shield placed over its chest. Above the eagle, the scroll displays the traditional motto, while the denomination is indicated below as fifty cents. What makes this specific coin particularly compelling to researchers and numismatists is its die variety. It features the "Square Base 2, Small 8's, Large Letters" combination. This means the number two in the 1828 date has a straight, square base rather than a curled one, the eights in the date are noticeably smaller, and the lettering on the reverse is of the larger variety. These subtle variations in early hand-carved dies make each surviving specimen a unique puzzle for observers to examine.