– Draped Bust Half Dime (1796-1805)

The Draped Bust Half Dime is a historic coin issued by the United States Mint from 1796 to 1805. It is part of the early series of American coinage and holds significant importance in numismatic history. Here's an overview of the Draped Bust Half Dime: 

Design: The obverse (front) of the coin features a bust of Liberty facing right, with flowing hair draped over her shoulder. The word "Liberty" appears above her head, and the date of mintage is inscribed below.  

Designer: The design of the Draped Bust Half Dime is attributed to Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. Scot's design reflects the neoclassical style prevalent in late 18th-century America, with its emphasis on classical motifs and allegorical representations. 

Metal Composition: The Draped Bust Half Dime was struck in an alloy of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper. This composition gave the coin its distinctive silver appearance and made it suitable for circulation as a small denomination coin. 

Mintage: The mintage numbers for the Draped Bust Half Dime varied from year to year, with production levels influenced by factors such as demand for small denomination coins, technological limitations, and the availability of silver for coinage. 

Historical Context: The issuance of the Draped Bust Half Dime occurred during the early years of the United States Mint and reflects the nation's efforts to establish a stable and recognizable currency system following the American Revolution. 

Collector's Value: Due to their age, historical significance, and limited mintage numbers, Draped Bust Half Dimes are highly sought after by coin collectors and numismatists. Coins in good condition, particularly those with sharp details and attractive patina, can command high prices on the numismatic market. 

Legacy: The Draped Bust Half Dime holds a special place in American numismatic history as one of the early denominations of U.S. coinage. It reflects the ideals and aspirations of the young nation, as well as the artistic and technological achievements of its time. 

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