1809-1836 Classic Head - More Details

The so-called Classic Head design by John Reich made its appearance on half cents in 1809. Its design was so profoundly beautiful a somewhat related motif was used again later on the 2 1/2 and $5 gold coins of 1834. Miss Liberty faces left. Her hair is in curls, close to her head, and is secured by a band inscribed LIBERTY. Seven stars are to the left and six to the right. The date is below. The reverse consists of a continuous wreath tied at the bottom with a ribbon, enclosing HALF CENT at the center, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the border.

Specimens of this type are readily available in all grades from Good through Uncirculated, although, interestingly enough, specimens in Good to Very Good grade are scarcer than those in Fine through Extremely Fine. At the time of issue, half cents did not circulate extensively, so they were not subject to as much wear as were contemporary large cents, for example.

Uncirculated coins can be obtained of a number of dates within this span, but the most often seen are those of 1828, 1833, and 1835. Such pieces, if they have original mint red, are apt to have flecks or spots as a result of dampness.

Beware of cleaned or "processed" pieces masking as "Uncirculated," for such pieces abound. 1831 and 1836 are exceedingly rare; most known specimens are Proofs, many of them being restrikes. Original Proofs were struck of certain dates toward the end of the era, and all are very difficult to locate.