Numismatic

1839 Reeded Edge Half Dollar Lrg Letters VF

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The year 1839 marked an intriguing period of transition and refinement for United States coinage, beautifully captured in this Reeded Edge Half Dollar. Struck in 90% silver, this fifty-cent piece contains 0.3866 troy ounces of precious metal. Unlike earlier half dollars that featured lettered edges, this coin showcases a distinct reeded edge, a technological advancement of its era that helped protect the coin from clipping and wear. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the obverse presents a classic profile of Lady Liberty facing left. She wears a Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom, with the word LIBERTY clearly inscribed across her band. Below her portrait, the date 1839 is prominently displayed. On the reverse, a powerful eagle is depicted with a patriotic shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle firmly grasps an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, representing a balance of peace and readiness. Surrounding this central image are the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination, abbreviated as HALF DOL. This particular specimen survives in Very Fine condition, showing honest wear that highlights the enduring nature of this early American silver coin.