Capped Bust Half Dollar
Country of Origin: United States
Year of Issue: 1825
Denomination: 50 Cents (Half Dollar)
Composition: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
Brief Description
An early American silver half dollar featuring Liberty in a cloth cap and a heraldic eagle, notable for its intense rainbow iridescent toning.
Historical Significance
Designed by John Reich, the Capped Bust series (1807–1839) was the workhorse of the early American economy. In 1825, the U.S. was undergoing the 'Era of Good Feelings' and rapid westward expansion; these coins were high-value denominations for the time.
Estimated Value
$150-$400 in common circulated grades; $1,500-$10,000+ for high MS grades with exceptional 'monster' toning as seen here.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or dip, as this would destroy the original toning and surface luster. Store in a PVC-free archival holder (slab or flip) in a cool, dry environment to prevent further chemical changes.
Mint Mark
None (all 1825 half dollars were minted in Philadelphia)
Mintage & Rarity
2,912,592; common for the series but rare in high Mint State condition with vibrant toning.
Weight & Diameter
13.48 grams / 32.5 mm
Edge
Lettered: 'FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR'
Apparent Grade
Appears to be Mint State (MS-64 to MS-66) based on sharp details and lack of visible wear, though the heavy toning can hide small marks.
Obverse (Front)
Liberty facing left wearing a Thrygian cap inscribed 'LIBERTY'. Her hair flows down her neck. Thirteen stars (7 left, 6 right) surround her, with the date 1825 below.
Reverse (Back)
An eagle with spread wings holding an olive branch and three arrows. A shield is on the eagle's chest. A scroll above reads 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. Legend 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and denomination '50 C.' below.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition (grade), eye appeal (the rainbow toning is a massive premium factor), and die variety (Overton numbers).
Similar Coins
Capped Bust Quarters (smaller), Capped Bust Dimes (much smaller), and the later 'Reeded Edge' half dollar subtype.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for the lettered edge. Weigh the coin to ensure it is 13.48g. Look for 'artificial toning' vs 'natural toning'; the progression from yellow to blue suggests natural long-term storage in a sulfur-rich environment.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Various Overton die marriages exist for 1825, including 'Remarried Date' and different star alignments (e.g., O-101 through O-117).
Created At: 2026-05-29T05:49:10.150282