U.S. COIN REFERENCE · Capped Bust half eagle
Capped Bust half eagles: melting changed the surviving set
A substantial mintage can leave very few coins for collectors.
By SalarsNet · Reviewed October 5, 2026
Portrait and format changes
The left-facing Capped Bust begins during 1807, followed by Capped Head designs from 1813. A diameter change occurs in 1829. Read the precise portrait and reverse type before selecting a standard. The period’s coins were subject to melting and export when their gold value exceeded face value.
Type references: PCGS Capped Bust $5 ↗
The 1820s require exact evidence
Several dates in this period are exceptional rarities, including 1822. A date, die pairing, and authentication record are essential before estimating value. Preserve both faces, edge, actual measurements, and prior provenance; do not derive a specimen’s identity from resemblance to a famous auction image.
Type references: PCGS Capped Bust $5 ↗
Compare survival and surfaces separately
Recorded production and known survivors answer different questions. Inspect hair, cap, eagle, fields, and rims for wear and alteration, then match sales of the same confirmed issue. Leave survival counts uncached unless a dated specialist census with defined scope actually supports them.
Type references: PCGS Capped Bust $5 ↗
Selected reviewed issue records
These catalog standards describe the named issue, not a measured specimen. The selected records below do not cover every date, mint, strike, or die variety. Reported production is labeled separately from established mintage. Unknown standards and mintage remain visible; survival estimates and certified populations are separate research questions.
No issue-level specification or mintage records are published for this category yet. Verify the exact date, mint, strike, metal, and subtype in its reference before using a numerical standard.
References and review
Reference reviewed October 5, 2026. Historical facts and catalog standards need to match the exact issue; price comparisons should be researched at the time of valuation.
Continue collecting
← Historic gold · U.S. coin reference · All collecting guides