Numismatic

1834 Bust Half Dollar VF (Sm Date, Sm Letters)

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This silver fifty-cent piece from 1834 offers a captivating window into early American coinage. Minted in Philadelphia, the coin is composed of 89.24 percent silver, containing 0.3868 troy ounces of the precious metal. Surviving in Very Fine condition, it showcases the artistry of a bygone era with remarkable clarity. On the obverse, the profile of Lady Liberty faces right, her hair flowing beneath a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle her image, with the date 1834 positioned clearly at the bottom. This particular variety is distinguished by its small date and small lettering, subtle design variations that intrigue numismatists who study the hand-punched dies of the early nineteenth century. The reverse displays a proud American eagle with a shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle clutches both an olive branch of peace and a bundle of arrows, representing strength. Above the eagle, a scroll bears the national motto, while the face value is indicated below, completing a design that defined the look of United States silver currency during this period.