1786 CT 1/2P Draped Bust Left Half Penny

Coin Details

Description

Representing the majority type of 1786-1788 Connecticut copper production, this draped bust left-facing halfpenny is cataloged under Miller die combinations including 5.5-H.1, 5.6-N, and related (Whitman 2550). The "draped bust" refers to classical drapery on the figure's chest, distinguishing it from mailed (armored) bust varieties. The obverse reads AUCTORI CONNEC ("By the Authority of Connecticut"), while the reverse depicts seated Liberty with ET LIB INDE ("Both Liberty and Independence"). Connecticut's copper coinage was authorized in October 1785, granting a monopoly to Samuel Bishop and Company, who subcontracted production to various die sinkers. The draped bust left design became the standard portrait type, produced from numerous die combinations that provide a rich field for colonial variety specialists. Multiple Miller pairings are encompassed by Whitman 2550, reflecting many obverse and reverse dies used. Struck in copper with variable weights and diameters typical of private colonial minting, these coppers circulated alongside British halfpence, state coppers, and tokens in the coin-short 1780s economy.

Rarity Notes

Common for 1786 Connecticut coppers.

Cross References

Miller 5.5-H.1, 5.6-N, and related; Whitman 2550