Braided Hair Half-Cents

The Braided Hair Half-Cent was introduced in 1840 and represents the final design used for the denomination. Liberty is shown with her hair intricately braided and tied in a bun, reflecting the more refined engraving style of the mid-19th century. The series was produced from 1840 through 1857, though several later dates were struck in very limited quantities, primarily for collectors rather than general circulation. Key issues such as 1849, 1853, and 1856 are especially sought after due to their low mintages, and the 1857 issue marks the end of half cent coinage altogether as the denomination was discontinued.