Numismatic

1831 Bust Half Dollar VF

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In 1831, the Philadelphia Mint struck a half dollar that stands as a classic example of early American silver coinage. Composed of 89.24 percent silver, this fifty cent piece contains approximately 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a fascinating era of United States minting, displaying the artistry of the period through its detailed engraving and substantial feel. The obverse of the coin displays a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She wears a draped cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY, with her hair flowing down her neck, surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies and the date 1831 positioned below her bust. On the reverse, a classic American eagle is depicted with a shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle grasps an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, symbolizing a desire for peace coupled with a readiness for defense. Above the eagle, a scroll bears the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the denomination is indicated at the bottom as 50 C.