Early Half Dollars For Sale
The early half dollars of the United States, minted before 1840, represent a fascinating chapter in the nation’s numismatic history. With distinct designs, evolving silver content, and limited mintages, these coins offer a glimpse into the formative years of American coinage.

1794-1807: The Flowing Hair and Draped Bust Designs
The first half dollars were minted in 1794, featuring the Flowing Hair design attributed to Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. These early coins were produced in small quantities, making them rare and highly sought after by collectors. The Flowing Hair design was succeeded by the Draped Bust design in 1796, evolving the portrayal of Liberty on the obverse and introducing a more refined eagle on the reverse.
Key Dates and Rarity
Within the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust series, certain dates stand out as key to collectors. The 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar is particularly noteworthy due to its low mintage and historical significance. As one of the earliest issues, it is a rare find and a prized addition to any numismatic collection.
The 1806 Draped Bust Half Dollar with the Small Stars Obverse is another key date. Varieties with the small stars on the obverse are rarer than their large stars counterparts, adding to the appeal for collectors seeking a comprehensive set.
1807-1836: The Capped Bust Design Era
In 1807, the Capped Bust design was introduced, marking a new era for half dollars. Designed by John Reich, this design featured Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse and an eagle with a shield on the reverse. The Capped Bust series underwent various modifications during its run, including changes in lettering, size, and other design elements.
Key Dates and Notable Varieties
The 1815/2 Capped Bust Half Dollar is a key date known for its overdate feature. The underlying 1812 date is visible beneath the 1815 on the obverse. This variety adds an element of intrigue for collectors, and well-preserved examples are highly sought after.
The 1836 Capped Bust Reeded Edge Half Dollar is another notable variety. In this year, the U.S. Mint transitioned from a lettered edge to a reeded edge. The 1836 Capped Bust Reeded Edge coin represents a unique moment in the evolution of American coinage and is valued by collectors for its historical significance.
1836-1839: The Reeded Edge Transition
In 1836, the transition to a reeded edge for half dollars was complete, replacing the lettered edge seen in previous years. This change was part of broader efforts to modernize and standardize U.S. coinage.
The Gobrecht Connection: 1838
In 1838, the U.S. Mint experimented with a new design known as the Gobrecht design. This pattern, named after Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht, featured a seated Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. While not widely circulated, the 1838 Gobrecht Half Dollar is a numismatic rarity and is highly sought after by collectors. The design elements seen in this pattern foreshadowed future coinage in the United States.
The Most Valuable Early Half Dollars
Determining the most valuable early half dollars involves considering factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance. The 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar, 1815/2 Capped Bust Half Dollar, and the 1838 Gobrecht Half Dollar are among the most valuable due to their scarcity and unique features. These coins, representing different design eras, are prized possessions for serious numismatists and collectors seeking a connection to the formative years of American coinage.
Conclusion: Preserving History in Silver
In conclusion, the early half dollars minted before 1840 represent not only a collection of coins but a tangible link to the birth and growth of the United States. From the scarce Flowing Hair and Draped Bust issues to the transitional years with the introduction of the reeded edge, each coin tells a story of innovation, experimentation, and evolving artistic expression. The most valuable dates and versions of these early half dollars are cherished by collectors, not just for their monetary value but for the historical narratives they carry, encapsulating a pivotal era in American numismatics.
1824 50C Capped Bust Half Dollar
![]() | $37.12 Buy It on eBay for only: $37.12 Buy It Now on eBay |
1824 Capped Bust Half Dollar, Choice Fine Early Silver 50c
![]() | $25.77 Buy It on eBay for only: $25.77 Buy It Now on eBay |
1825 Capped Bust Half Dollar
![]() | $35.55 Buy It on eBay for only: $35.55 Buy It Now on eBay |
LIBERTY 1808 Capped Bust Silver Half Dollar 50c Hot
![]() | $25.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $25.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
BEAT THIS !!!!!!!! KEY DATE 1807 BUST HALF 100% ORIGINAL FINE FIRST YEAR $259✨
![]() | $259.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $259.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
LIBERTY 1810 Capped Bust Silver Half Dollar 50c Hot free shipping
![]() | $29.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $29.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
1808 Capped Bust Half Dollar G Early Date 50c (L35)
![]() | $100.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $100.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
(1) Beautiful Toned Antique 1831 Capped Bust Half Dollar VF-VERY FINE
![]() | $99.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $99.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
1838 Capped Bust Half Dollar NGC MS 61
![]() | $1,850.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $1,850.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1839 Capped Bust Half Dollar NGC F15 Crusty Toned Type Coin
![]() | $154.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $154.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
1829 Capped Bust Half XF details old underlying clean
![]() | $80.00 (12 bids) End Date: Sunday Jul-06-2025 18:32:01 EDT Bid |
1814 O-107 Capped Bust Half Dollar PCGS XF-45 - Excellent Luster & Die Clashing!
![]() | $815.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $815.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1806 Pointed 6, Stem Draped Bust Silver Half Dollar 50C - Obverse Scratch
![]() | $285.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $285.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1809 Capped Bust Half Dollar, Choice Fine Early Silver 50c
![]() | $25.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $25.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
1806 Draped Bust Half Dollar, Pointed 6, w/stem PCGS VG08
![]() | $525.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $525.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1810 Capped Bust Half Dollar, Choice Fine Early Silver 50c
![]() | $29.99 Buy It on eBay for only: $29.99 Buy It Now on eBay |
1818 CAPPED BUST HALF DOLLAR O-112 R1 PCGS VF35 SUPER ORIGINAL BEAUTIFUL
![]() | $375.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $375.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1834 PCGS AU58 Overton 106 Capped Bust Half Toned🔥
![]() | $850.00 Buy It on eBay for only: $850.00 Buy It Now on eBay |
1827 Capped Bust Half Dollar 50C 90% Early US Type Coin AU Details Really Choice
![]() | $449.95 Buy It on eBay for only: $449.95 Buy It Now on eBay |
1833 CAPPED BUST HALF DOLLAR 50C PCGS CAC APPROVED AU50 GORGEOUS COLOR TONER
![]() | $889.95 Buy It on eBay for only: $889.95 Buy It Now on eBay |