1797 13 Stars Draped Bust Half Dime
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The Draped Bust Half Dime coin was the earliest American silver coin, first issued in the United States in 1796. The Half Dime coin was a small silver coin and the size and weight of the coin changed several times during its life.
The first design on the coin was called the Draped Bust, due to the image of Lady Liberty, who is wearing a draped gown, on both the obverse and reverse of the coin. On the obverse of the coin is a left facing portrait of Lady Liberty with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the image. On the reverse, an eagle with wings slightly spread is shown with the words “HALF DIME” around the image.
The Half Dime coins were part of the first dime series minted in the United States. As such the coins were minted for only a few years, ending in 1805. The dimes that were minted during this period were made with a few different compositions consisting of copper, copper nickel, and silver. The Draped Bust Half Dime is considered to be a collectible coin today with some of the coins being rare. There are many graded specimens of the coin in various conditions with prices depending on the grade and condition of the coin. PCGS and NGC both grade and certify the coins with the most sought after coins often selling for thousands of dollars.
The Draped Bust Half Dime was a bit of Americana that was around during some of the most turbulent times in our country’s history. The coin is a piece of history that is still available today as a collectible, and one that is sure to hold its value for many years.
The 1797 13 Stars Draped Bust Half Dime coin, struck at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania mint, and engraved by Robert Scot. Made of silver (.8924) (.1076 copper), weighing 1.35 grams, with a diameter of 16.5 mm, and featuring a reeded edge.
The obverse is draped bust right, flanked by stars. It reads “LIBERTY 1796”. The reverse is small eagle surrounded by wreath. It reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
| Grade | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $1,300.00 |
| 4 | $2,600.00 |
| 8 | $6,000.00 |
| 12 | $6,000.00 |
| 20 | $7,000.00 |
| 40 | $16,000.00 |
| 45 | $19,000.00 |
| 50 | $24,000.00 |
| 55 | $34,000.00 |
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