1839 Capped Bust, Small Letters Half Dollar
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$85,188 VF25 09-02-2021 Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
The 1839 Capped Bust, Small Letters Half Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint as a half dollar in the Capped Bust Half Dollars 1807-1839 series. With a mintage of 1.4 million, this is a less common issue — ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 47% of production. 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 final year of the Capped Bust Half Dollar before the Seated Liberty design replaced it. Only the small-type reeded-edge version was struck. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $19K to $216K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 13.36 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6180.
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