Although the Half Cent is the smallest denomination of US coin ever minted, it was nearly the size of a modern-day quarter. Made from 100% copper and weighing between 5 and 7 grams depending on the variety, each Half Cent coin struck by the U.S. Mint was valued at 1/200th of a dollar. From 1793 to 1857, five distinct varieties of Half Cents were produced: Liberty Cap facing left, Liberty Cap facing right, Draped Bust, Classic Head, and Braided Hair Half Cents.
To fund the war effort during the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress issued paper currency known as “Continentals.” Unfortunately, this currency quickly lost its value post-war, leading to a crisis in confidence for paper money. Recognizing the need for a national coinage system, the US Constitution granted Congress the exclusive authority to coin money. The Coinage Act of 1792 soon followed, establishing the United States Mint and authorizing the production of various coins, including the Half Cent. The first Half Cent was first minted in 1793 and remained in circulation until 1857 when it was retired due to its diminished purchasing power.
The Half Cent underwent several design changes over its minting period, each offering unique challenges and rewards for collectors. Here are the five main varieties:
The first Half Cent was minted in 1793, featuring the “Liberty Cap, Facing Left” designed by either US Mint coiner Henry Voigt or artist Joseph Wright. This design depicts Lady Liberty facing left with a Phrygian cap on a pole over her shoulder. The reverse showcases a wreath with inscriptions, including the denomination 1/200. A total of 35,334 of these coins were minted in that year.
From 1794 to 1797, the Half Cent featured Lady Liberty facing right, with the Phrygian cap behind her. This design by Robert Scot also included a wreath on the reverse.
In 1800, the “Draped Bust” design by Robert Scot and Gilbert Stuart was introduced, transforming Lady Liberty into a more buxom figure, possibly modeled after Philadelphia socialite Ann Bingham. The reverse, designed by Scot and John Gardner, featured a wreath with inscriptions.
The “Classic Head” design, introduced by John Reich in 1809, depicted a matronly Lady Liberty facing left with a headband inscribed with “LIBERTY.” This design was produced until 1836, except for several years when no Half Cents were minted.
The final variety, the “Braided Hair” Half Cent, was designed by Christian Gobrecht and minted from 1840 to 1857. This design featured a slimmer, youthful Lady Liberty with braided hair and a headband. These coins are particularly prized due to their low mintages.
Half Cents are highly sought after by collectors, with values ranging from $50 to $20,000, depending on condition and variety. Some rare issues have been valued at over $100,000. Notable examples include:
For accurate condition and grading of your Half Cent coins, consulting a numismatic professional is essential. Seeking professional assessment from grading services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) is highly recommended. Given that many surviving Half Cents are in relatively poor condition, it is still important for serious collectors to understand their value. At Bullion Hunters, we provide access to a wide range of collectible coins and expert advice to help you build a valuable collection. Visit Bullion Hunters or contact us today to begin your exploration into the enticing realm of Half Cents.