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The Certified 1822 Bust Half Dollar graded VG10 by NGC represents a well-preserved example of early American coinage from the distinguished Capped Bust series. Designed by John Reich and first issued in 1807, the Capped Bust Half Dollar remained in production until 1836 and was the workhorse denomination of its time. The 1822 issue falls squarely within the core of the series, reflecting a mature minting process and a period of growing national identity. Graded Very Good 10 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this piece retains sufficient detail to clearly present its classic design elements, despite moderate wear from active circulation nearly two centuries ago. As a certified coin, it ensures authenticity and stability in the marketplace, appealing to collectors who value both historical context and numismatic integrity.
On the obverse, the 1822 Capped Bust Half Dollar features the left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a soft Phrygian cap inscribed with the word “LIBERTY” on the headband. Her long, curled hair flows gracefully down her neck and shoulder, and the bust is clad in drapery that crosses from the right shoulder downward. Encircling Liberty are thirteen six-pointed stars—seven to the left and six to the right—representing the original American colonies. The date “1822” appears prominently beneath the portrait. In VG10 condition, the details of Liberty’s face, cap, and gown have worn smooth, but the primary outlines are still intact. The stars are worn yet distinguishable, and the date remains fully legible. The overall appearance is balanced, with natural wear patterns consistent with prolonged use in early American commerce.
The reverse of the coin presents a bold and uniquely American eagle with wings spread wide. A large shield with vertical and horizontal stripes covers the eagle’s chest, while the talons grasp an olive branch on the right and a bundle of arrows on the left, symbolizing a desire for peace backed by the strength to defend the nation. A scroll unfurls above the eagle bearing the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Surrounding the central design is the legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with the denomination “50 C.” positioned just beneath the eagle. In VG10 condition, the major features of the eagle—its wings, body, and head—remain outlined but show significant flattening of finer details such as feathers and shield lines. However, the legends and denomination are legible, and the coin retains its full circular shape without significant surface damage or corrosion.
The 1822 Bust Half Dollar was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was still the sole coin-producing facility in the United States at the time. The total mintage for the year was approximately 1,559,000 pieces, a healthy number that reflects the denomination’s essential role in American commerce. These coins were not only used widely within the country but also frequently shipped overseas due to their intrinsic silver value. The heavy use and melting losses over time have made even modestly circulated examples like this VG10 coin desirable among collectors. Furthermore, multiple die marriages are known for the 1822 issue, and these varieties have been cataloged in the Overton system. While this VG10 example may not retain enough detail to confirm its specific die variety without magnification, the date alone makes it an important part of any Capped Bust half dollar collection.
The coin’s silver composition is 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, consistent with early 19th-century U.S. silver standards. It weighs approximately 13.48 grams and has a diameter of 32.5 millimeters. Its reeded edge, an anti-counterfeiting measure of the time, may be partially worn on a VG10 coin but is typically still discernible. These large, heavy silver pieces were among the most important coinage denominations during their time, used in major business transactions and banking functions. The 1822 half dollar, like others in the series, is an enduring emblem of the nation’s reliance on tangible silver coinage before the widespread issuance of paper currency and the establishment of smaller fractional coinage systems.
Coins graded VG10, or Very Good 10, show moderate wear across all surfaces but retain complete outlines of major devices and full legibility of important inscriptions. On this 1822 coin, Liberty’s profile, the cap, and the surrounding stars are clearly visible despite being flattened. On the reverse, the eagle is well outlined, and the inscriptions are intact. The coin may exhibit a soft silver-gray toning common to circulated early silver, and NGC’s certification confirms that it is genuine and free from cleaning, damage, or environmental issues. For collectors building a circulated type set or focusing on early American silver, a VG10 coin offers the perfect balance between affordability and visual appeal.
The artistry of John Reich, a German immigrant and master engraver, is evident in the strength and realism of the Capped Bust design. The eagle on the reverse in particular, with its outstretched wings and powerful posture, represents a shift in national self-confidence during the post-War of 1812 era. The obverse design, with its classical Liberty figure, captures the American ideals of freedom and individualism. This coin circulated during the administration of President James Monroe, a period of national growth and relative political unity known as the “Era of Good Feelings.” As such, it serves as a physical testament to the expansion of American political and economic influence during the early 19th century.
Die varieties for the 1822 half dollar are numerous and range from subtle shifts in numeral shape to larger differences in die alignment and engraving quality. The Overton-101, 102, and other varieties are highly studied by specialists. Although this VG10 example likely lacks the detail to make easy variety attribution, it remains a collector-grade specimen due to its certification, pleasing wear, and intact fields. For more advanced collectors, it may still serve as a candidate for detailed analysis under magnification, particularly if known die cracks or letter positioning are still discernible despite the grade.
In summary, the Certified 1822 Bust Half Dollar graded VG10 by NGC is a respected and accessible example of early U.S. silver coinage. It bridges the gap between historical significance and collectibility, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal time in the nation’s development. With its worn yet legible design, silver composition, and third-party authentication, this coin stands as both a numismatic artifact and a survivor of real-world use. For type set builders, early silver enthusiasts, or those seeking to own a piece of American history that circulated during the nation’s formative years, this 1822 half dollar offers enduring value and undeniable charm.