Numismatic

1835 Half Dime Small Date/Small 5¢ VF

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This silver half dime from 1835 offers a fascinating glimpse into early United States coinage. Struck in Philadelphia with a silver purity of 0.8924, this five cent piece contains 0.0387 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a classic era of American numismatic design, preserved in Very Fine condition, allowing observers to appreciate the fine details that have survived for nearly two centuries. The front of the coin features a portrait of Liberty facing right, adorned with a Phrygian cap, a traditional emblem of freedom. The word LIBERTY is clearly inscribed across her band, with the year 1835 positioned below the bust. This specific issue is noted for its small date and small denomination styling, which makes it a compelling subject of study for those who enjoy detecting subtle variations in early die preparation. On the reverse, an eagle is depicted with a protective shield across its chest. The bird grasps an olive branch and a bundle of arrows in its talons, representing the dual themes of peace and defense. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the central image, completing a design created by William Kneass that defined the nation's early silver coinage.