1834 Proof Capped Bust Half Dime

Coin Details

Auction Record

$50,400 PR65 08-20-2023 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1834 Proof Capped Bust Half Dime is a proof dime struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Capped Bust Half Dimes 1829-1837 series. With a mintage of 25, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with 0% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a mob cap or turban and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Minted during the age of Jacksonian democracy and the rise of the common man, as new branch mints opened in Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $50,400 PR65 08-20-2023 Heritage Auctions. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper, weighing 1.35 grams, 15.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #4297.