Draped Bust Half-Dimes
(1796 - 1805)
The Draped Bust Half Dime succeeded the Flowing Hair design and was struck from 1796 through 1805. The obverse features a more refined portrait of Liberty with drapery at the neckline, while the reverse initially displayed a small eagle (1796–1797) before transitioning to the Heraldic Eagle design beginning in 1800.
These coins were composed of approximately 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, consistent with early U.S. silver standards. Production was intermittent, and mintages were generally low, particularly in the early years of the series.
Because of their age, limited survival rates, and multiple reverse types, Draped Bust Half Dimes are considered important early federal issues and are highly sought after in both circulated and higher-grade examples.
Check out dates & mintages for Draped Bust Half-Dimes, below.Business Strikes
Type 1, Small Eagle
1796 | 10,230
1797 | 44,527
Type 2, Heraldic Eagle
1800 | 40,000
1801 | 27,760
1802 | 3,060
1803 | 37,850
1805 | 15,600
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