1838 Capped Bust Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1838 Capped Bust Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Capped Bust Half Dollars 1807-1839 series — a late issue, 31st of 32 years in the series. In 1838, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and New Orleans Mints with a combined mintage of 3.5 million. This ranks 10th of 32 years by total mintage, below 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. The 1838-O Half Dollar, with only about 20 examples known, is one of the most famous U.S. coin rarities — the first half dollar struck at the New Orleans Mint. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 13.36 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Across its variants, estimated values range from $105 to $3.5K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $764K in SP64 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Christian Gobrecht.