Numismatic

1832 Bust Half Dollar XF (Sm Letters)

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In 1832, the Philadelphia Mint produced this silver half dollar, a piece that showcases the artistry of early American coinage. Struck with a purity of 0.8924 silver, this coin contains 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a fascinating era of United States minting, coming from a total production run of 6,545,000 pieces for that year. The obverse displays a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She wears a traditional Phrygian cap, a classic symbol of freedom, with her hair flowing down her neck. The word LIBERTY is inscribed upon her band, and the year 1832 is clearly struck below the bust. This design was created by John Reich, who brought a distinct European influence to early American coinage. On the reverse, a bold heraldic eagle dominates the center. The eagle holds an olive branch of peace in one claw and a bundle of arrows of strength in the other, while a protective shield covers its chest. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is displayed on a scroll hovering above the eagle, emphasizing the unity of the young nation.