Capped Bust Half Dime (1829-1837)
Mint Mark Information

After 1805, no half dimes were coined for the next 24 years. When production resumed in 1829, the design chosen closely resembled that of John Reich’s dime, quarter, and half dollar of 1807.

The obverse featured a curly haired Liberty wearing a mobcap, a type of women’s cap in style during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Its no mystery why this group was named the Capped Bust Half Dime.

Mint Engraver William Kneass is listed as the designer of the coin, as he had to make numerous modifications on Reich’s work for adaptation to the half dime.

The Capped Bust Half Dime was discontinued after 1837. In all, 13.06 million were minted, ranging from a low of 871,000 in 1837 to 2.76 million in 1835.

Capped Bust Half Dime Obverse

Capped Bust Half Dime Reverse

There are no Mint Marks anywhere on the Capped Bust Half Dime, as shown on this table:

All of the Capped Bust Half Dimes were coined before any of the US branch mints came into being, meaning the Philadelphia Mint is the only facility where these particular half dimes were produced. The first "P" Mint Mark was not employed until the mid-20th century, so that's why you won't find a Mint Mark on the Capped Bust Half Dime, even using the most powerful of magnifying lenses. An above average example of a Capped Bust Half Dime from Goldberg Coins is shown at right.

There are no rare key dates in the Capped Bust Half Dime series. There are plenty of them to go around for collectors. However, therein lies a bit of an opportunity. Check out the prices for high grade Uncirculated (e.g. MS-63) Capped Bust Half Dimes. Sure, a certified example will set you back a few thousand bucks, but it's a coin you will always be proud of.

1829-37 Capped Bust Half Dime