1797 Capped Bust to Right Half Eagle - Heraldic Eagle, 15 Stars

Coin Details

Description

The 1797 Capped Bust to Right Half Eagle - Heraldic Eagle, 15 Stars is a Gold Half Eagle produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Capped Bust to Right Half Eagles 1795-1807 series. With a mintage of 1,057, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 5 mint variants, representing only 13% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing right wearing a cloth cap (pileus) and the reverse displays a small, naturalistic eagle perched on a palm branch within a wreath (1795-1798) or a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM (1795-1807). Both 15-star and 16-star obverse varieties exist, reflecting the addition of Tennessee to the Union. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $35K to $241K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 91.7% gold, 8.3% copper, weighing 8.75 grams, 25 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #45571.