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The 1807 U.S. Half Cent with the Draped Bust design, in About Good (AG) condition, is a notable relic from the formative years of the United States Mint. As the final year of issue for the Draped Bust half cent series (1800–1807), this coin represents both the end of a classic early American design era and the economic realities of a young nation still developing its monetary system. Though well-worn in AG condition, this coin remains historically significant and collectible, especially for enthusiasts of early U.S. copper coinage.
The obverse of the 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent features a right-facing portrait of Liberty, her flowing hair partially tied with a ribbon and cascading behind her shoulders. Above her head is the word “LIBERTY,” with thirteen stars—representing the original colonies—surrounding the portrait (seven to the left and six to the right). The date “1807” is centered below the bust. In AG condition, this side of the coin is heavily worn, with most of the fine details in Liberty’s face and hair worn smooth. However, the date is usually visible, though it may be weak or partially blended into the surface. The outline of the bust and some star points are typically discernible, sufficient to identify the type and date with confidence.
The reverse displays a laurel wreath encircling the denomination “HALF CENT.” Beneath the wreath is the fraction “1/200,” indicating the coin’s value as one two-hundredth of a dollar. The outer legend reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The wreath is open at the top, and its bow-tied base and detailed leaves were once sharp and defined but are greatly diminished in AG condition. On well-preserved AG examples, the lettering around the periphery is usually visible, although weaker in some areas. The wreath and denomination may be faint but are generally identifiable through careful examination, especially under magnification or good lighting.
The 1807 issue was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which at the time was the only operating U.S. Mint facility. The total reported mintage for the year was 476,000 coins, a relatively modest number even by early 19th-century standards. These coins circulated widely during a time when small change was in high demand and U.S. coinage was still competing with foreign coins and state-issued currencies. Because of their high utility and copper composition, half cents like the 1807 issue were heavily used and subject to corrosion, wear, and environmental damage, contributing to the scarcity of high-grade survivors.
The Draped Bust design was originally introduced on the half cent in 1800 and was based on a portrait by artist Gilbert Stuart. It was engraved by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The design reflects neoclassical influences, embodying ideals of liberty and refinement. In 1809, the Draped Bust design would be replaced by the Classic Head, marking a new chapter in U.S. coin design more aligned with contemporary American tastes. The 1807 Draped Bust thus represents the culmination of this elegant, early federal motif in the half cent denomination.
In AG condition, the 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent is an example of a heavily circulated coin that has survived over two centuries. AG coins typically exhibit full outlines of the major design elements, even if inner details are completely smoothed out. The coin may be darkly toned with a chocolate brown or olive surface, and edge wear is often present. Still, collectors prize such coins for their affordability, authenticity, and historic character. Many appreciate the “well-loved” appearance of early copper coins in low grade, seeing them as having done their job in the economy of early America.
From a collector’s perspective, an AG 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent can fill an important place in a U.S. type set, early copper date set, or historical display without requiring the higher cost of finer grades. These coins also appeal to students of U.S. Mint history and die variety specialists, although in AG condition, attribution to specific die pairings (Cohen varieties) can be difficult or impossible due to surface wear. Nonetheless, the coin retains its identity and integrity as a genuine product of the early U.S. Mint, struck in a period when every coin had high value in day-to-day commerce.
As with all early coppers, eye appeal matters even in low grades. A well-preserved AG coin with smooth surfaces, natural toning, and no major damage or corrosion will be more desirable than one with rough surfaces or signs of harsh cleaning. Original patina and even wear can make a significant difference in both market value and collector satisfaction. Coins that have retained their rims and readable legends are especially prized in AG condition, as they retain the defining characteristics of the design while reflecting the passage of time.
Despite its low face value and humble appearance, the 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent tells a rich story of American monetary development. It circulated in the years following Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, when the U.S. was still building infrastructure and trade routes, and when copper coinage represented a crucial element of everyday economic life. This coin may have passed through the hands of shopkeepers, farmers, and early American citizens, buying basic goods in a time when coinage was scarce and paper money not yet trusted nationwide.
The 1807 Draped Bust Half Cent in AG condition offers an affordable and historically resonant way to own a piece of early American coinage. Though it lacks the fine detail of a high-grade specimen, it possesses character, age, and authenticity that appeal to collectors who value the journey a coin has taken. As the last year of the Draped Bust design, it holds special significance within the series and remains a treasured addition to any collection of U.S. early copper coinage or pre-Civil War numismatics.