Commonly asked questions and answers.
What is a United States Half Dime?
The United States Half Dime is a small coin with a face value of five cents. It was minted from 1794 to 1873. The Half Dime is unique because it was not minted from nickel, as the modern five-cent piece or "nickel" is, but from silver.
What are the different designs of the United States Half Dime?
Over its nearly 80 years of production, the Half Dime went through several design changes. The four main designs are: Flowing Hair (1794-1795), Draped Bust (1796-1805), Capped Bust (1829-1837) and Seated Liberty (1837-1873). Each design represents a different period in U.S. history and minting technology
How much is a United States Half Dime worth today?
The value of a Half Dime can vary significantly depending on factors such as its age, rarity, design, mint mark, and condition. For example, a Half Dime in good condition from the early Flowing Hair period may be worth several thousand dollars. On the other hand, a Seated Liberty Half Dime from the later years might be worth only a few dollars if it's in poor condition. For a precise valuation, a professional coin grading service should be consulted.
What is the Liberty Seated Half Dime?
The Liberty Seated Half Dime is a coin series minted by the United States from 1837 to 1873. It is named after the design featuring Liberty seated on a rock, which is depicted on the obverse (front) side of the coin. The reverse (back) typically features an eagle with a shield. The Liberty Seated Half Dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 15.5 mm and a weight of 1.34 grams.
What are some key characteristics of the Liberty Seated Half Dime?
The Liberty Seated Half Dime has several notable characteristics. It is one of the smaller denominations ever produced by the United States Mint, making it physically smaller than most other coins. The design features a seated Liberty on the obverse, holding a shield and a liberty pole with a Phrygian cap. The reverse side displays an eagle with a shield, arrows, and an olive branch. The coin also carries mint marks to indicate the different mint locations.
Are Liberty Seated Half Dimes valuable?
The value of Liberty Seated Half Dimes can vary depending on factors such as their condition, rarity, and specific dates or mint marks. Some Liberty Seated Half Dimes may have higher numismatic value due to their scarcity or historical significance. Early-year issues, coins in exceptional condition, or those with low mintages can command higher prices among collectors. It is advisable to consult coin pricing guides or seek the assistance of reputable coin dealers or numismatic experts to determine the specific value of a Liberty Seated Half Dime in your possession.
