Capped Bust Half Dollar

United States · 1825

An early American silver half dollar featuring Liberty in a cloth cap and a heraldic eagle, notable for its intense rainbow iridescent toning.

Country: United States
Year: 1825
Denomination: 50 Cents (Half Dollar)
Metal: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified May 29, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

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.

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.

Estimated value

$150-$400 in common circulated grades; $1,500-$10,000+ for high MS grades with exceptional 'monster' toning as seen here.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (grade), eye appeal (the rainbow toning is a massive premium factor), and die variety (Overton numbers).

Grade assessment

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.

Mintage & rarity

2,912,592; common for the series but rare in high Mint State condition with vibrant toning.

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).

Similar coins

Capped Bust Quarters (smaller), Capped Bust Dimes (much smaller), and the later 'Reeded Edge' half dollar subtype.

Care & preservation

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.