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The Bust Half Dime 1835 Small Date Small 5 is a noteworthy example of early American silver coinage, distinguished by its historical significance, intricate design, and collectible rarity. This coin represents an era when the United States Mint was refining its coinage system and responding to evolving needs and preferences in the early 19th century. The 1835 Small Date Small 5 variety of the Bust Half Dime stands out due to its unique attributes and its place in the broader context of American numismatic history.
The history of the Bust Half Dime is rooted in the early years of the United States Mint, which began producing this denomination in 1792. The Bust Half Dime, produced from 1829 to 1837, was part of the broader series of Bust coins, which were characterized by their distinctive designs and high silver content. The 1835 issue, in particular, is notable for its different varieties, including the Small Date Small 5 version, which reflects subtle changes in design and minting practices during this period.
The 1835 Bust Half Dime was minted in Philadelphia, the principal minting location at the time. Philadelphia was the hub of American coinage production in the early 19th century, and the Mint there was responsible for producing a wide array of coins, including the Bust Half Dime. The minting of this coin involved intricate processes and attention to detail, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of the Mint's engravers and staff. The production of the 1835 Bust Half Dime, including the Small Date Small 5 variety, was a continuation of the Mint's efforts to create a consistent and recognizable currency system for the growing United States.
The design of the 1835 Bust Half Dime Small Date Small 5 is a testament to the artistic and technical achievements of early American coinage. On the obverse, the coin features the iconic bust of Liberty, facing left. Liberty is depicted with a headband inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” and her hair is styled in a flowing manner. The portrait is framed by thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, and the date “1835” appears just below Liberty’s bust. The Small Date variant of this coin is characterized by the smaller size of the numerals in the date, which is a distinguishing feature from other varieties produced during the same period.
The reverse of the coin displays a classic design, featuring a wreath of laurel and oak surrounding the denomination “5 C” for five cents. The wreath symbolizes victory and honor, while the denomination clearly indicates the coin’s value. The reverse design is simple yet elegant, complementing the obverse and providing a balanced appearance to the coin. The Small 5 variant refers to the smaller size of the number “5” in the denomination, which is another distinguishing characteristic of this particular variety.
The mintage of the 1835 Bust Half Dime, including the Small Date Small 5 variety, was relatively modest compared to later issues. The total mintage for the 1835 Bust Half Dime was approximately 920,000 pieces, with the Small Date Small 5 variety being a subset of this total. The relatively low mintage and specific design characteristics contribute to the coin’s rarity and desirability among collectors.
In terms of condition, the 1835 Bust Half Dime Small Date Small 5 described as Extra Fine (EF) is a coin that exhibits a high level of preservation and detail. In Extra Fine condition, the coin shows only minimal wear on the high points of the design, with most of the original detail and luster retained. The surfaces of the coin are generally clean, with only light signs of handling or circulation. The overall appearance of the coin is crisp and well-preserved, allowing the intricate design elements to be clearly visible. An Extra Fine example of this coin provides a pleasing balance between affordability and quality, making it an appealing choice for collectors interested in early American numismatics.
The 1835 Bust Half Dime Small Date Small 5 in Extra Fine condition is a valuable and interesting piece of American coinage. Its historical significance, unique design features, and relative rarity make it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts. The coin’s enduring legacy and appeal are a testament to its importance in the history of American currency and its place in the broader context of numismatic collections.