Though small in size, the Capped Bust Half Dime holds immense historical and numismatic value. Minted from 1829 to 1837, this silver five-cent coin is one of the shortest and most collectible series in U.S. coinage. With its elegant design, low mintages, and ties to the early days of American industry, the Capped Bust Half Dime is a standout favorite among early coin enthusiasts.
In fact, it’s one of the most interesting silver coins ever made.
Overview: What Is a Capped Bust Half Dime?
- Years minted: 1829–1837
- Designer: William Kneass
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Weight: 1.35 grams
- Diameter: 15.5 mm
- Minted at: Philadelphia only
The Capped Bust Half Dime was the third major redesign in the half dime series, following the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust types. It represents a period of modernization at the U.S. Mint, with increased use of steam power and more standardized coin production.
Design Features
Obverse
Depicts Liberty facing left, wearing a soft cap (often interpreted as a Phrygian liberty cap), with the word “LIBERTY”on the headband. Thirteen stars circle the rim, and the date appears at the bottom.
Reverse
Features a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, perched and surrounded by the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “5 C.” beneath.
The design was compact, detailed, and well-suited to the small planchet, making it both attractive and practical for the time.
Historical Significance
The Capped Bust Half Dime was issued during a time of rapid industrial growth and westward expansion in America. As the smallest silver denomination, half dimes were widely used in everyday commerce — buying goods, making change, and traveling west in settlers’ pockets.
Unlike nickels, these half dimes were true silver coins — a fact that makes them especially appealing to collectors of early U.S. precious metal coinage.
Why Are They Collectible?
- ✅ Short series — Just 9 years of production, making a complete date set achievable.
- ✅ Beautiful design — Classic early 19th-century artwork by Kneass.
- ✅ Low mintages — Most dates had mintages under 1 million, with several under 500,000.
- ✅ Historic composition — One of the last true silver half dimes before the Seated Liberty era.
Key Dates & Scarce Varieties
While no date is prohibitively rare, some issues are tougher to find:
- 1835 – One of the most common and best for beginners.
- 1837 – Final year of the type; often collected as a type coin.
- 1829–1830 – Scarcer early dates with bold strikes.
- 1835/4 and 1836/5 – Popular overdate varieties that command premiums.
Collector Value (2025 Market Estimates)
| Grade | Common Dates (e.g. 1835) | Scarce Dates/Varieties |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $45–$80 | $150–$300+ |
| Fine (F-12) | $80–$150 | $300–$600+ |
| XF to AU | $200–$400+ | $600–$1,200+ |
| Mint State (MS) | $600–$2,500+ | $5,000+ for top pops |
Original surfaces and attractive toning will always boost market value.
Unlike other silver coins on the market, silver price isn’t going to impact the value of your Capped Bust silver half dime.
Tips for Collectors
- Start with 1835 or 1837 – These are common and affordable for beginners.
- Avoid damaged or cleaned examples – Half dimes were often mishandled due to their small size.
- Buy graded coins when possible – Helps authenticate and protect your investment.
- Look for overdates – Some years have distinct varieties worth significantly more.
How to Tell It Apart from Other Half Dimes
It’s easy to confuse the Capped Bust Half Dime with other early 5¢ coins. Here’s how it stands out:
| Type | Years Minted | Liberty Design | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flowing Hair | 1794–1795 | Flowing hair Liberty | Reeded |
| Draped Bust | 1796–1805 | Draped bust Liberty | Reeded |
| Capped Bust | 1829–1837 | Liberty with soft cap | Reeded |
| Seated Liberty | 1837–1873 | Liberty seated on rock | Varied |
Final Thoughts
The Capped Bust Half Dime might be small in size, but it offers big rewards to collectors. With a short run, striking classical design, and ties to early American history, it’s a coin that fits perfectly into a U.S. type set, a silver collection, or a focused early 19th-century portfolio.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable entry into classic American coins or searching for rare overdate varieties, the Capped Bust Half Dime offers a rich collecting experience packed into a tiny silver disc.
If you’re looking to buy silver or sell silver, be sure to reach out to the shop. We also have rare coins in stock such as the Capped Bust half dime. We have a wide selection of rare silver coins, give us a call today to learn more.
