Draped Bust Half Cent

A new design was introduced for the smallest denomination of the United States with the Draped Bust Half Cent. The coins were minted from 1800 to 1808, but were not produced during 1801. The series represents the first type of early copper coins that, for some dates, is somewhat easily acquired in higher grades.

Most specifically, these would be About Uncirculated examples of some of the most common dates. Mint State examples with original surfaces, like all early coppers, are scarce, and some dates warrant a heavy premium due to their rarity. Other varieties, identified in the red book, are very rare as well and seldom appear on the market. A simple date set, regardless of varieties, in lower circulated grades is not too difficult to complete, but finding original examples without corrosion will be difficult in those grades.

The Draped Bust Half Cent was designed by Robert Scot. The same basic obverse design had already been in use for the other non-gold denominations circulating at the time. Liberty is depicted with her hair tied in a ribbon and folds of drapery across her bust. The reverse design was altered from the appearance on the first half cent series by changing the arrangement of leaves in the laurel wreath.

This site will provide some basic information on the Draped Bust Half Cent, including details on the design, specifications, and mintages. Some of the rarities of the series are also described for this early United States coin series.