The Capped Bust Half Dollar, minted from 1807 to 1839, is a cornerstone of U.S. numismatics. Designed by John Reich, these coins showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of early American coinage while providing an exciting challenge for collectors. Renowned numismatist Jeff Garrett offers invaluable advice on how to approach this fascinating series, helping both novice and seasoned collectors navigate its intricacies.
Understanding the Capped Bust Half Dollar Series
The Capped Bust Half Dollar is divided into two major design types:
- Large Diameter (1807–1836): These coins, with a diameter of 32.5 mm, feature intricate designs, including the iconic Liberty with a draped cap and an eagle with a shield on its breast.
- Reduced Diameter (1836–1839): As part of a shift in minting technology, the diameter was reduced to 30 mm, with minor changes to the design details.
Within these broad categories, collectors encounter hundreds of die varieties, as the U.S. Mint of the time frequently reused and modified dies. These varieties offer rich opportunities for specialized collecting, making the Capped Bust Half Dollar a rewarding and challenging series.
Tips for Collecting Capped Bust Half Dollars
1. Start with Common Dates
Jeff Garrett recommends beginning with more accessible coins from common years, such as those minted in the 1820s. These are widely available in mid-grade conditions (Fine to Very Fine) at reasonable prices. Collecting common dates allows beginners to familiarize themselves with the series without significant financial risk.
2. Decide on Your Collecting Goals
The Capped Bust Half Dollar series offers multiple collecting approaches:
- Date Set: Assembling one example from each year.
- Type Set: Collecting one coin from each major design variation.
- Overdates and Die Varieties: Delving into the fascinating world of minting anomalies.
Garrett advises collectors to align their goals with their interests and budget, as some paths (e.g., collecting rare die varieties) can be time-consuming and expensive.
3. Pay Attention to Grade and Eye Appeal
For collectors with an eye for investment, Garrett emphasizes the importance of focusing on high-grade examples. Capped Bust Half Dollars in Extremely Fine (XF-40) or better are more desirable, especially those with strong luster and minimal wear. Coins with attractive toning and sharp strikes often command premiums.
4. Study Die Varieties and Overdates
Advanced collectors may want to explore the Overton numbering system, which catalogs the various die pairings and varieties within the series. Coins like the 1817/3 Overdate and 1823 Broken 3 are highly sought after and can become the highlights of a collection.
5. Seek Professional Grading and Certification
To ensure authenticity and quality, Garrett recommends purchasing coins certified by respected third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC. Certified coins not only provide peace of mind but also make reselling easier.
Where to Find Capped Bust Half Dollars
Capped Bust Half Dollars are widely available through auctions, coin shows, and reputable dealers. Garrett encourages collectors to buy from trusted sources and, when possible, to examine coins in person to assess their true quality and appeal.
Why Collect Capped Bust Half Dollars?
For Jeff Garrett, the Capped Bust Half Dollar represents the perfect blend of history, artistry, and collectibility. These coins tell the story of a young America and showcase the evolving minting technologies of the 19th century. Whether you’re assembling a date set or diving into rare varieties, collecting these coins offers an engaging and rewarding journey.
Conclusion
The Capped Bust Half Dollar is a timeless series that appeals to collectors of all experience levels. By following Jeff Garrett’s tips—starting with common dates, focusing on grade, and exploring varieties—you can build a collection that is both historically significant and personally fulfilling. With patience and study, these classic coins can become the centerpiece of any numismatic portfolio.
FAQs
1. What are the two types of Capped Bust Half Dollars?
The two types are the Large Diameter (1807–1836), which is 32.5 mm, and the Reduced Diameter (1836–1839), which measures 30 mm. Both feature Liberty with a draped cap on the obverse.
2. What is the Overton Numbering System for Capped Bust Half Dollars?
The Overton system catalogs die varieties of Capped Bust Half Dollars. It assigns a unique number to each combination of obverse and reverse dies, helping collectors identify rare varieties like the 1817/3 Overdate.
3. How do I start collecting Capped Bust Half Dollars?
Jeff Garrett recommends starting with common dates from the 1820s in mid-grade conditions like Fine or Very Fine. These coins are affordable and provide a solid introduction to the series.