Numismatic

1833 Bust Half Dollar VG

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Struck in the year 1833, this United States half dollar represents a classic era of American silver coinage. Minted in Philadelphia, the coin is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing approximately 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal. Even with the wear expected of a piece graded in Very Good condition, the artistry of its early nineteenth-century design remains clearly visible. The front of the coin displays a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, her hair draped beneath a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle the portrait, representing the original colonies, with the date 1833 anchored at the bottom. This depiction was created by engraver John Reich, who brought a distinct European-influenced aesthetic to early United States currency. On the reverse, a detailed heraldic eagle dominates the center, bearing a striped shield across its chest. The eagle holds a collection of arrows and an olive branch in its talons, symbolizing both strength and peace. Surrounding this central image is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, a testament to the enduring national symbols of the young republic.