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The Certified 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar, graded XF45 by NGC, is a notable example from the popular Capped Bust Half Dollar series. This series, which ran from 1807 to 1839, is highly prized for its historical significance and classical design. The 1819/8 overdate variety adds an additional layer of intrigue, as it represents the U.S. Mint’s practice of reusing dies, a common occurrence in early American coinage. The overdate can be seen in the date area, where the "9" was stamped over the "8" on the die, leaving a visible remnant of the original digit. In XF45 condition, this coin exhibits solid detail and light wear, making it a desirable collectible for those who appreciate early U.S. silver coinage.
The obverse of the 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar features a portrait of Liberty, facing left, designed by John Reich. Liberty is wearing a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom, which is where the term "Capped Bust" comes from. Her hair flows beneath the cap, and she is draped in a gown secured by a clasp on her shoulder. Above Liberty’s head is the word "LIBERTY," and thirteen stars encircle her to represent the original thirteen colonies. The overdate is clearly visible in the date at the bottom of the coin, where the tail of the "8" can be seen underneath the "9." In XF45 condition, this coin retains much of its original detail, with slight wear on the high points of Liberty’s cap, hair, and the stars. The coin’s surface shows an attractive patina, giving it a pleasing appearance that highlights its age and history.
The reverse of the 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar is equally impressive, featuring a heraldic eagle at the center of the design. The eagle has its wings outstretched and holds a bundle of arrows in its left talon and an olive branch in its right, symbolizing the nation’s readiness for war and desire for peace. A shield is placed on the eagle’s chest, representing the country’s strength and defense. Above the eagle’s head is a banner inscribed with the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "50 C." are placed around the edges of the reverse. In XF45 condition, the reverse retains strong detail, particularly in the eagle’s feathers and the shield, though there is light wear consistent with the coin’s grade. The overall strike is sharp for this early period of U.S. coinage, with the design elements remaining clear and distinct.
The 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the only operating mint in the United States at the time. The reuse of dies, which resulted in the overdate, was a common practice at the Mint due to the costs associated with creating new dies. The 1819/8 overdate variety is one of the more recognizable and desirable overdates in the Capped Bust Half Dollar series, as the error is clearly visible and adds to the coin’s historical and numismatic interest. The mintage for the 1819 half dollar was 2,208,000 coins, though only a fraction of these were struck with the overdate die, making the 1819/8 variety scarcer and more sought after by collectors.
The Capped Bust Half Dollar series is one of the most popular series in early American coinage, with collectors drawn to its classical design and historical significance. The series was designed by John Reich, a German-born engraver who was hired by the U.S. Mint in 1807. Reich’s design was a departure from the earlier Draped Bust style, and it reflected a more contemporary and refined aesthetic. The series includes many interesting varieties, including overdates, repunched dates, and other die errors, which add to its appeal for numismatists. The 1819/8 overdate is one such variety that highlights the Mint’s evolving practices and the challenges it faced during the early 19th century.
The XF45 grade, assigned by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), indicates that this coin is in extremely fine condition, with light wear on the high points of the design but strong detail throughout. NGC is one of the most trusted third-party grading services in the numismatic world, known for its strict grading standards and reliable certifications. A coin graded XF45 shows some evidence of circulation, but it retains much of its original detail and has an overall pleasing appearance. The certification by NGC ensures the coin’s authenticity and condition, making it a valuable and trustworthy addition to any collection.
The Certified 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar, graded XF45 by NGC, is an important piece of early American coinage that combines historical significance, an attractive design, and a desirable overdate variety. In XF45 condition, the coin retains strong detail and a pleasing appearance, with light wear that is consistent with its age. The overdate adds an extra layer of numismatic interest, making this coin a standout piece in any collection of early U.S. silver coins. For collectors who appreciate the artistry and history of American coinage, this 1819/8 Bust Half Dollar is a noteworthy and valuable acquisition.