Capped Bust
to Left (1807-1812)
John Reich began working at the U.S.
Mint in 1807 as an assistant to the engraver, Robert
Scot. Reich's first efforts designing American coins
occurred that same year, when his Capped Bust motif
appeared on the half dollar and half eagle. The half
eagle turned out to be the most important gold denomination
in the early 1800s. In fact, from 1809 to 1820, inclusive,
it was the only gold denomination produced in the country.
As such, there were no breaks in the Capped Bust series,
a rare occurrence in any type outside of large cents
or half dollars. Mintages were high for the period,
reaching a zenith of more than 100,000 coins in 1810.
Even the lowest-mintage date (1809) was represented
by more than 33,000 coins. Unfortunately for collectors,
many examples of this type were destroyed during the
frequent peri¬ods when their metal value exceeded
their face value.
This type contains two overdates: 1808/7
and 1809/8. In 1810, the date is either Large or Small,
and the 5 in the denomination is found either Tall,
Small, or Large (the rarest com¬bination is the
1810 Large Date, Small 5). The 1811 coin is also found
with Small or Large 5 numerals in the denomination.
In general, this type is better made
than it predecessors, although weak strikes are sometimes
a problem. Adjustment marks are sometimes seen, but
they are usually minor due to the better strikes. No
Proof exam¬ples were made of this type. All coins
of this type were struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Designed by John Reich. The Capped
Bust design appeared on only one other denomination
the quarter eagle of 1808. Liberty's cap looks no longer
like a freedman's cap, but just a loose bag with a headband.
Her hair is nicely done and falls in curled tresses
down the back of her neck.Thirteen stars are arranged
with seven on the left and six on the right on the obverse;
die date appears below the bust. The reverse features
an eagle with its wings outstretched and raised, with
arrows and an olive branch in its talons. A scroll bearing
the words E PLURIBUS UNUM hovers above the eagle's head
and the denomination in the form "5 D." appears
beneath the eagle.
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