-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 47034
Checkout
The US Half Cent 1828 13 Stars Classic Head coin is an important piece in the history of American coinage. Produced during the early years of the United States Mint, this coin represents an era when the nation was still in its infancy and working to solidify its identity. The 1828 Half Cent is part of the Classic Head series, which was issued from 1809 to 1836. It is a key date in the series, marking the third year of issue after the design was changed to the "Classic Head" motif. This particular coin is notable not only for its historical significance but also for its design and relatively small mintage, making it a valuable item for collectors of early American currency and numismatists alike.
The history of the Half Cent can be traced back to the early years of the United States Mint. Established in 1792, the Mint's initial purpose was to create a consistent, standardized currency for the fledgling nation. The Half Cent, as one of the smallest denominations in circulation, was introduced to meet the need for a coin that could facilitate everyday transactions involving small amounts of money. Throughout its production, the Half Cent underwent several design changes, with the 1828 coin being part of the "Classic Head" type. The change in design was initiated to refresh the image of the nation’s currency and give it a more modern appearance. During this period, the U.S. was beginning to move away from the more ornate designs of earlier coins and toward a more simplified, neoclassical style, which is exemplified by the Classic Head series.
The 1828 Half Cent features the distinctive Classic Head design created by artist John Reich. The obverse of the coin depicts a bust of Liberty facing left, wearing a cap with a star motif, which was a common symbol of freedom during the early days of the Republic. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above her head, and the date "1828" is placed below the bust. Surrounding the image of Liberty are 13 stars, which represent the original 13 American colonies. This is a significant element in the design, symbolizing the unity of the newly formed United States and its connection to its colonial past. The stars are arranged in a semi-circle, enhancing the classic and harmonious look of the coin. The obverse design reflects the neoclassical influences of the time, emphasizing simplicity and elegance, while conveying the themes of liberty and the nation's origins.
On the reverse of the 1828 Half Cent, the design continues with a simple yet powerful theme. The reverse features a wreath surrounding the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," with the denomination "HALF CENT" at the bottom. The wreath is made up of laurel and oak, representing honor and strength, and is a common motif used in American coinage at the time. The simplicity of the reverse design complements the more intricate features of the obverse, creating a balanced and harmonious appearance. The wreath's circular shape also symbolizes unity and continuity, which were important ideals for the young nation. The reverse design is a reflection of the early 19th century's desire for a coin that was both functional and symbolic, representing the values of the American republic.
The 1828 Half Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the nation's first official minting facility. The U.S. Mint was tasked with producing the nation's coins, and its products were made with a high level of craftsmanship. The Philadelphia Mint used manual engraving and die production techniques to strike the coins, ensuring that each piece was crafted with precision and care. The Half Cent, being a lower-denomination coin, was struck in relatively high numbers, although its mintage was still limited compared to larger denominations. The coin was made of copper, which was a common material for smaller coins during this period. The 1828 Half Cent, along with other coins from this time, provides a glimpse into the minting processes of the early U.S. Mint and the nation's growing economy.
The mintage of the 1828 Half Cent was approximately 1.7 million coins. While this may seem like a large number by today's standards, it was relatively modest for the time. The Half Cent was a small-denomination coin, and coins of this value were often used in everyday transactions, but they were not as widely circulated as larger denominations. As a result, surviving examples of the 1828 Half Cent in good condition are relatively scarce, and this makes the coin highly sought after by collectors. The limited mintage, combined with its historical significance, contributes to the coin's desirability in the numismatic market. The 1828 Half Cent is considered an important part of the Classic Head series and a valuable addition to any collection of early American coins.
The condition of the 1828 Half Cent plays a significant role in determining its value. This coin, graded as VF+ (Very Fine Plus), is in excellent condition for its age. Coins from this era were made of copper, which is prone to wear and corrosion, particularly when in circulation for long periods. The VF+ grade indicates that the coin retains a considerable amount of detail, with only slight wear on the high points of the design. The surfaces of the coin may exhibit light abrasions, but the overall appearance remains sharp and clear, with the design elements still well-defined. Coins in higher grades, such as EF (Extremely Fine) or AU (About Uncirculated), are rarer and command higher prices, but the VF+ grade is still considered very good for a coin of this age. The condition of the coin is important not only for its aesthetic value but also for its historical significance, as it represents a well-preserved example of early American coinage.
The value of the 1828 Half Cent is not only determined by its mintage and condition but also by its historical context. The coin was produced during a time when the United States was experiencing significant political and economic change. The early 19th century saw the expansion of the nation, the development of its infrastructure, and the rise of political parties that would shape the country's future. The Half Cent, as a low-denomination coin, reflects the day-to-day transactions that took place during this formative period in American history. It is a tangible link to the economic life of the time, and as such, it holds both numismatic and historical value. For collectors, owning an example of the 1828 Half Cent is not only an opportunity to appreciate its beauty and craftsmanship but also a chance to connect with the early years of the United States and the development of its coinage system.
In conclusion, the US Half Cent 1828 13 Stars Classic Head VF+ coin is a remarkable example of early American coinage and a significant piece of numismatic history. The coin’s design, featuring the bust of Liberty surrounded by 13 stars, and the reverse with the laurel wreath, reflect the values and ideals of the young United States. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin was part of a broader effort to create a standardized currency system for the nation. The limited mintage, combined with its high level of preservation in VF+ condition, makes this coin a valuable addition to any collection. The 1828 Half Cent not only represents a piece of early American financial history but also serves as a reminder of the political and social transformations that shaped the United States during the 19th century. Whether as an investment or as part of a historical collection, the 1828 Half Cent remains a sought-after and meaningful artifact of the nation’s past.