1835 50C Capped Bust Half Dollar PCGS Smoothed AU Detail

Design and Historical Context:

• The Capped Bust design, introduced in 1807 and created by John Reich, features Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, a symbol of liberty and freedom, with “LIBERTY” inscribed on the headband. The reverse shows a majestic bald eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace.
• This design was used on half dollars until 1836 and is a cornerstone of early U.S. coinage, reflecting the fledgling nation’s aspirations and identity.

The 1835 50C Capped Bust Half Dollar PCGS Genuine – Surfaces Smoothed AU Detail is a fascinating coin for both collectors of early American coinage and those with an interest in historical numismatics.

Specifications:

• Year: 1835.
• Denomination: 50 cents.
• Mint: Philadelphia (no mint mark).
• Composition: 89.2% silver, 10.8% copper.
• Diameter: 32.5 mm.
• Designer: John Reich.

Design:

• Obverse:
  • Features a bust of Liberty wearing a cap (hence “Capped Bust”), with flowing hair and a draped neckline.
  • The legend “LIBERTY” is inscribed on the cap, with stars encircling the bust and the date below.
• Reverse:
  • Displays a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, holding arrows and an olive branch in its talons.
  • The legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “50 C.” surround the design.

Conclusion:

The 1835 50C Capped Bust Half Dollar PCGS Genuine – Surfaces Smoothed AU Detail offers an affordable entry point into collecting early U.S. silver coinage. While the surface smoothing limits its premium, its sharp details and historical importance make it a worthy addition for type collectors or those who prioritize aesthetics over originality.

If you’d like help with comparable coins or more guidance on early U.S. coinage, let me know!

G-4 Good- Date and Letters legible. Bust worn smooth with outline distinct.

VG-8 Very Good- LIBERTY faint. Legends distinguishable. Clasp at shoulder visible; curl above it nearly smooth.

F-12 Fine– Clasp and adjacent curl clearly outlined with slight details.

VF– Very Fine– Clasp at shoulder clear. Wear visible on highest point of curl. Hair over brow distinguishable.

EF-20 Extremely Fine- Clasp and adjacent fairly sharp. Brow and hair above distinct. Curls well defined.

AU-50 About Uncirculated- Trace of wear on hair over eye and over ear.

MS-60 Uncirculated- No Trace of wear. Light blemishes. Possible slide marks from storage handling.

MS-63 Choice Uncirculated- Some distracting contact marks or blemishes in prim focal areas. Impaired luster possible.