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The Bust Half Dollar dated 1819 in Very Good condition represents a treasured piece of early American coinage and a remarkable artifact from the formative years of the United States Mint. These half dollars belong to the Capped Bust series, which was issued from 1807 through 1839 and designed by engraver John Reich, who was brought to the Mint to reinvigorate and modernize its designs. The 1819 issue falls within the earlier “Lettered Edge” type, produced from 1807 to 1836, and holds significant historical value due to its age, design, and connection to early 19th-century America. As a coin minted during the Monroe administration, it circulated during a time of great political and territorial expansion, and its survival in any collectible grade adds a tangible link to that pivotal era.
The Capped Bust half dollar was among the first coins designed after the Mint recognized the need for more practical and refined artwork. John Reich’s depiction of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap—a classical symbol of freedom—was intended to present a strong, matronly image of the young republic. Liberty faces left, wearing a flowing gown and a cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Her hair is loose and cascading, with finely cut details that would have been especially visible on higher-grade specimens. Surrounding the portrait are thirteen stars representing the original colonies, and the date “1819” appears at the bottom. In Very Good condition, much of the finer hair detail and facial features are worn smooth, but the general outline of Liberty, her cap, and the date remain clear and well centered.
The reverse of the 1819 Bust Half Dollar features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clasping arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right—symbols of readiness for war and a desire for peace. A shield covers the eagle’s chest, and the national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears on a scroll above the eagle’s head. Encircling the design is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination expressed as “50 C.” This particular feature—expressing the denomination as “50 C.” rather than “HALF DOLLAR”—was used consistently until 1836. In Very Good condition, the reverse retains a recognizable eagle silhouette, with the wings and body worn smooth but distinguishable. The lettering around the rim remains readable, though softened, and some shield details may still be present depending on wear.
The 1819 Bust Half Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only mint facility in operation at the time. A total of 2,208,000 half dollars were produced that year, making it a relatively plentiful issue within the Capped Bust series. However, many examples were lost to time, circulation, or melting, and surviving coins today vary widely in quality and rarity depending on die variety. The 1819 issue is known to have several Overton varieties, referring to the comprehensive die classification system developed by Al C. Overton. These varieties are based on different obverse and reverse die pairings, and some are considerably scarcer than others. While collectors seeking variety sets pay close attention to such distinctions, for most collectors of type coins, a general 1819 half dollar remains a desirable acquisition regardless of die pair.
The edge of the 1819 Bust Half Dollar carries a raised lettered inscription reading “FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR.” This feature, unique to the early Bust half dollar series, was created using a separate edge lettering machine and adds to the historic charm of the coin. Over time, the lettered edge was replaced by reeded edges in later half dollar types, making these early edge-lettered examples especially interesting to numismatists. In Very Good condition, the edge lettering may be partially worn or faint, but some portions are often still visible with close inspection. The presence of legible edge lettering enhances both the aesthetic and numismatic value of these early federal issues.
The Capped Bust half dollar was struck in 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, with a weight of 13.48 grams and a diameter of approximately 32.5 millimeters. These coins were substantial in hand and used extensively in trade, especially during a time when paper money was limited and coinage served as the primary medium of exchange. The large planchet, sturdy construction, and silver content ensured these coins had durability, but heavy usage also meant significant wear. Very Good condition coins typically show considerable surface wear from years in circulation but retain enough integrity to appreciate the design and fully identify the coin’s type and date.
In terms of eye appeal, an 1819 Bust Half Dollar in Very Good condition typically exhibits smooth, evenly worn surfaces with light to moderate abrasions from circulation. There may be minor nicks or scratches, but the overall wear is expected and consistent with the grade. Liberty’s outline, cap, and gown are identifiable, even if most interior details are lost. The date is always readable, and the reverse eagle remains apparent despite the loss of feather detail. The coin’s fields may exhibit dark gray, steel, or silver-gray toning, and many examples feature pleasing, antique patinas that give the piece a classic, aged appearance prized by collectors of early American coinage.
Collectors are drawn to the 1819 Bust Half Dollar for multiple reasons: its age, its design beauty, and its historical importance. As a type coin, it represents an essential chapter in the evolution of American coinage, bridging the gap between the early Draped Bust issues and the Seated Liberty series that would follow. The robust size and silver composition add further allure, making the coin an enduring favorite among both beginners and seasoned collectors. While higher-grade specimens with original luster and sharp detail are coveted, Very Good examples provide an affordable and accessible way to own an authentic piece of early U.S. history without compromising on historical or visual appeal.
The 1819 Bust Half Dollar Very Good offers collectors a window into the early 19th-century United States, a period marked by post-Revolutionary growth, expansion across the frontier, and increasing industrial development. Its classical design, crafted by one of the Mint’s most skilled engravers, reflects the aesthetic sensibilities of the young republic, while its heavy circulation speaks to its role in everyday commerce. As a well-preserved survivor of that dynamic period, this coin embodies both monetary and cultural value. Whether collected for its artistic merit, historical narrative, or intrinsic silver content, the 1819 Bust Half Dollar remains a cherished and significant artifact from the golden age of early American coinage.