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The US Half Cent 1828 13 Stars Classic Head XF is a numismatic treasure that encapsulates a pivotal era in American coinage history. Minted in Philadelphia, this coin bears the distinguished Classic Head design, a testament to the artistry and technical skill of early 19th-century American minting. With a mintage that reflects the economic and political landscape of the time, each surviving specimen like this XF-grade example offers a tangible link to America's numismatic past.
Designed by John Reich, the Classic Head motif debuted in 1809, replacing the Draped Bust design. It features Lady Liberty facing left, her hair tied with a ribbon inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The obverse is encircled by thirteen stars, representing the original states of the Union. This design was well-received for its elegance and remained in use until 1836, making it a cornerstone of early American coinage artistry.
The reverse of the Half Cent showcases a wreath encircling the denomination "1/200" and the date "1828." The wreath, tied with a bow at the bottom, symbolizes agricultural and rural themes significant to early American identity and economy. The overall composition of the coin reflects a balance between Liberty and the agrarian roots upon which the nation was built.
Produced solely at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1828 Half Cent was struck under the direction of Chief Coiner Adam Eckfeldt. Established in 1792, the Philadelphia Mint was the first federal mint in the United States, tasked with producing coinage to stabilize the nation's monetary system. Its legacy includes not only the production of coins like the Half Cent but also the refinement of minting techniques crucial to maintaining uniformity and quality.
The mintage of the 1828 Half Cent was modest by today's standards, with approximately 606,000 pieces struck. This figure reflects both the demand for smaller denominations in everyday transactions and the economic conditions prevalent during the presidency of John Quincy Adams. Surviving examples in XF (Extra Fine) condition, such as this specimen, are particularly prized for their well-preserved surfaces and sharp details.
Condition-wise, an XF-grade coin like the 1828 Half Cent typically exhibits light wear on the highest points of the design, such as Liberty's hair and the edges of the wreath on the reverse. Despite this wear, the major design elements remain distinct, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Philadelphia Mint's engravers and the durability of early copper coinage.
Beyond its numismatic value, the 1828 Half Cent serves as a cultural artifact, offering insights into daily life and commerce in early 19th-century America. Its small denomination was integral to everyday transactions, facilitating trade and commerce at a time when coins were essential for conducting business across the growing nation.
Today, collectors and historians alike prize the 1828 Half Cent for its historical significance, artistic merit, and scarcity. Each surviving coin tells a story of American innovation, economic development, and the enduring appeal of numismatics as a window into our shared past.