The silver Bust Half Dime, sometimes referred to as the "disme," is a fascinating part of early American numismatic history. The term “disme” comes from the French word "dîme," derived from the Latin “decimus,” meaning “tenth.” This term was struck only on the 1792 half dismes and not on any other U.S. coins. Interestingly, the 1792 half disme was the first official U.S. coin, though it was not a product of the U.S. Mint. The major designs in the half dime series include the Flowing Hair, Draped Bust (with both small and large eagle reverses), and the Capped Bust.
The inaugural design in this series, the Flowing Hair half dime, was minted from 1794-1795. Created by Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, this design featured Lady Liberty with flowing hair, a typical look for silver denominations at the time. The reverse displayed a small eagle perched atop a cloud. Only 7,756 half dimes were minted in 1794, making them significantly rarer than the 1795 issue, which saw an approximate mintage of 78,660.
Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
The Draped Bust half dime followed the Flowing Hair design and was struck from 1796 until 1805. Created by artist Gilbert Stuart, this design featured Lady Liberty wearing a hairband, surrounded by stars, with variations including thirteen, fifteen, and sixteen-star versions. The reverse design had two major varieties: the Small Eagle reverse (1796-1797) and the Heraldic Eagle reverse (1800-1805), the latter based on the Great Seal of the U.S. with an eagle holding arrows and an olive branch.
Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
After a hiatus for the denomination from 1806-1828, the Capped Bust half dime emerged in 1829, and was minted through 1837. Designed by William Kneass, this coin featured Lady Liberty with a Phrygian cap, surrounded by thirteen stars. The reverse showed an updated heraldic bald eagle with all the traditional symbols: olive branch, arrows, shield, and banner. Mintage numbers varied, ranging from 800,000 to 2.7 million per year.
The 1792 half disme, though not minted at the U.S. Mint, is an integral part of this series' history. Designed by Thomas Birch, these coins are steeped in legend, including unverified claims that George Washington provided the silver for their minting and that Martha Washington served as the model for Lady Liberty.
The Seated Liberty Half Dime replaced the Bust Half Dime in 1837. This marked the end of the use of "disme" and transitioned to the more familiar term “dime.” This change laid the groundwork for the development of the nickel coinage that we recognize today.
The value of Bust Half Dimes varies significantly based on their condition and year. These coins are among the earliest U.S. coinage, making them highly desirable for collectors. Here's a brief overview of their values:
Bust Half Dimes are valuable and historically significant pieces that appeal to collectors for their rarity and design. As time progresses, these coins are likely to become even rarer and more cherished. If you come across one of these coins, consider having it graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) to determine its true worth. Understanding the details, mintage, rarity, and design of your half dime can provide insights into its value and importance in numismatic history. Visit Bullion Hunters or contact us for expert advice and a wide selection of collectible coins.