U.S. Mint coin reference

1829–1837: Capped Bust Silver Half Dime

Early U.S. half dime type reference.

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Coin specifications and design

Years made: 1829-1837

Country: United States

Denomination: Half dime

Category: Circulating coin

Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper through 1836; 90% silver, 10% copper for 1837

Silver fineness: 89.24%

Weight: 1.35 g through 1836; approximately 1.34 g for 1837

Diameter: 15.5 mm

Thickness: Approx. 0.8 mm

Edge: Reeded

Designer: William Kneass after John Reich style

Design identification

Obverse: Liberty bust portrait.

1829–1837: Capped Bust Silver Half Dime history

1829–1837: Capped Bust Silver Half Dime marked the return of half-dime production after a long suspension. William Kneass adapted the Capped Bust style to the small denomination, with HALF DIME inside a reverse wreath and a reeded edge.

Issues through 1836 follow the .8924 silver, 1.35-gram standard. The 1837 coinage moved to .900 silver and approximately 1.34 grams under the Coinage Act of 1837, so the final date requires separate composition and weight treatment.