1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Draped Bust Half Dollars 1796-1807 series — the second year of the series. Mint records give 3,918 half dollars for 1796 and 1797 together; the 1797 coins are traditionally credited with the 2,984 of a May 1797 delivery, while Steve Tompkins estimates 1,984. The obverse features Liberty facing right with draped bust and ribbon-bound hair, a portrait traditionally credited to Gilbert Stuart, and the reverse displays a small eagle within an open wreath, with the fraction 1/2 below. Produced during the earliest years of the United States Mint, when the young republic was establishing its monetary system and coinage traditions. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper, weighing 13.48 grams, 32.5 mm in diameter, with a lettered: fifty cents or half a dollar edge. Designed by Robert Scot/John Eckstein.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(1)
Other Base Coins in This Series
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