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The 1836 Bust Half Dime with the Small 5 variety in Fine condition is a fascinating and historically significant relic from the early years of the United States Mint. As the final year of the Capped Bust Half Dime series, 1836 marked the end of an era before the transition to the Seated Liberty design that would dominate American silver coinage for decades. This coin is not only valued for its age and silver content, but for its elegant early 19th-century design and the distinct characteristics of the Small 5 in the denomination. Minted at a time when America was still solidifying its financial institutions, the 1836 half dime reflects the young nation’s efforts to produce durable, standardized currency for an expanding economy.
The Capped Bust Half Dime series was introduced in 1829 under the direction of Chief Engraver William Kneass, who redesigned the denomination using the latest technology—namely the introduction of the steam press and the close collar technique, which gave the coins a standardized diameter and a more modern look. These changes improved striking consistency and gave the series its distinctive raised rim and denticled borders. The 1836 issue, part of this redesigned format, was the final installment before the Mint adopted the Seated Liberty motif beginning in 1837. As such, the 1836 Small 5 variety represents the end of a transitional chapter in U.S. numismatic history, and its limited production and single-mint origin enhance its desirability among collectors.
The obverse of the 1836 Bust Half Dime features a left-facing bust of Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” The cap is held in place by a ribbon, and Liberty’s flowing curls cascade down her neck. Thirteen stars representing the original colonies encircle the portrait, and the date “1836” appears at the bottom. In Fine condition, the overall profile of Liberty remains bold and easily discernible. While the finer details of her hair, cap, and drapery may show moderate wear, the general shape of the facial features and the word “LIBERTY” are typically visible, though perhaps faint in some areas. The stars are worn but complete, and the date remains fully legible, albeit with some smoothing on the surface fields.
The reverse design features a small eagle perched atop a branch, wings spread and head turned left. A shield is placed on the eagle’s chest, and in its talons, it holds three arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing war and peace. The legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” surrounds the eagle, and the denomination “5 C.” appears at the bottom. The 1836 Small 5 variety is so named because the numeral “5” in the denomination is noticeably smaller and positioned closer to the letter “C” than on its Large 5 counterpart. In Fine condition, the eagle’s major features, including its wings, outline, and shield, are visible though noticeably worn. The denomination and identifying Small 5 features remain distinguishable, allowing for confident attribution by collectors.
The 1836 Bust Half Dime was struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, as no branch mints had begun producing half dimes at that point in U.S. history. The total mintage for the year was 1,200,000 pieces, a respectable figure but not excessive, especially when divided between the Small 5 and Large 5 varieties. While exact mintage figures for each subtype are unknown, the Small 5 is generally regarded as the more common of the two, though both are necessary for a complete variety set. Many coins from this era were heavily circulated, and surviving examples in higher grades are increasingly difficult to obtain. Fine condition coins represent an attractive mid-grade level, balancing affordability and historical character with sufficient detail for study and appreciation.
The Bust Half Dime series holds a special place in U.S. numismatics as one of the smallest silver denominations ever produced and as a bridge between early American coinage and the industrialized minting processes of the later 19th century. The 1836 issue, in particular, represents the culmination of the Capped Bust design, closing out a series that began in 1829 and had already modernized the half dime from its original Draped Bust form. The use of new die-making and coining technologies allowed for cleaner strikes, more uniform planchets, and increased production efficiency, traits that are evident in the balanced proportions and refined aesthetic of the 1836 half dime—even when worn to a Fine condition.
A Fine condition 1836 Small 5 Bust Half Dime will typically exhibit moderate, even wear across both sides of the coin. The rims are generally full and well-defined, though slightly blended into the adjacent denticles. The central devices—Liberty’s portrait and the eagle—retain their essential shape and outlines, though interior details like Liberty’s curls and the eagle’s breast feathers are soft or absent. The coin may show light circulation marks, but it should remain free from distracting damage such as harsh cleaning, corrosion, or deep scratches. Natural toning, ranging from light gray to soft blue or golden hues, is often present and contributes to the coin’s eye appeal and authenticity.
Collectors often pursue the 1836 Small 5 as part of a complete type set of Capped Bust Half Dimes or as a representative piece in an early U.S. silver type collection. Its affordable mid-grade status, attractive design, and importance as the series’ final year make it a staple for enthusiasts of early American coinage. Variety specialists, in particular, appreciate the subtle differences between the Small 5 and Large 5 issues, which were likely created from different reverse dies and serve as examples of how 19th-century minting still involved hand engraving and inconsistent production practices. These minor variations contribute to the richness and complexity of collecting coins from this era.
For students of U.S. monetary history, the half dime denomination also presents an interesting study. As the precursor to the nickel, the half dime was produced from 1794 through 1873, playing a vital role in small-value commerce before paper currency and base-metal coinage became widespread. The 1836 Small 5 Bust Half Dime captures a moment just before these broader transformations took place and is one of the last silver half dimes made in the original tradition of fine silver content and classical design. Holding such a coin offers a tangible connection to a time when silver was the backbone of American currency and when every denomination was produced with both aesthetic care and commercial practicality.
The 1836 Bust Half Dime with the Small 5 in Fine condition is a compact but compelling piece of early American numismatics. It offers collectors a final-year issue from a historic series, struck in the Philadelphia Mint using evolving 19th-century coining methods. With a modest but clear level of surviving detail, the coin displays Liberty’s elegant profile, the powerful eagle, and the subtle signature of the Small 5 variety. Its moderate wear speaks to a life of circulation, serving as a tool of everyday commerce nearly two centuries ago. Whether acquired for its historic significance, its charm as a classic silver coin, or its role in a specialized variety set, the 1836 Small 5 Bust Half Dime remains a cherished piece of America’s numismatic legacy.