1840-1857 Braided Hair

Given the relatively few number of these coins minted, as compared to coins of larger denomination, it's hard to imagine the Half Cent still being a viable coin in the channels of commerce during this period. Perhaps this explains why coins for circulation were not struck until the year 1849. Coins struck prior to that date and dated 1840 - 1848 were limited to Proofs with the collector specifically in mind. The Treasury had vast stores of undistributed earlier coins upon which it could draw.

1840 featured a brand new design for this coin. Perhaps Miss Liberty became more athletic as her face trimmed and Braided Hair wrapped in a bun became the new hairstyle. The obverse design depicts this trimmer head facing left, with two beaded cords tied around her hair to hold it in the bun. The word LIBERTY appears on a diadem or coronet. Tresses hang downward to her neck. Surrounding the obverse border are 13 stars and the date. The reverse design is somewhat similar to the style used on half cents of the 1809-1836 era and consists of a continuous wreath tied with a ribbon below, enclosing HALF CENT, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the border, although the details are slightly different from those used earlier.

Half cents were produced in quantities for circulation from 1849 through 1857, with the exception of 1852. In the latter year the denomination was discontinued. AS one would expect, half cents did not circulate extensively, particularly during the era of the Braided Hair design. Specimens surviving today are apt to be in higher grades from Fine through Very Fine. Extremely Fine and AU coins are encountered with some frequency.

Coins of this are were extremely rare. Uncirculated pieces are scarce, and truly superb Uncirculated coins are very scarce.