1836 Capped Bust Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1836 Capped Bust Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Capped Bust Half Dollars 1807-1839 series — a late issue, 29th of 32 years in the series. In 1836, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 13.1 million. This ranks 27th of 32 years by total mintage, above the series median of 5.0 million. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a mob cap or turban, designed by John Reich who worked as an indentured servant at the Mint and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM within a motto scroll. Transitional year — both the large-type (lettered edge) and small-type (reeded edge) were produced, creating two major collecting types. Struck in 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper. Across its variants, estimated values range from $1.2K to $25K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $112K in PR67 grade at Bowers & Merena. Designed by John Reich.