1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar (15 Stars)

The 1797 Draped Bust half dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American numismatics, with only 2,984 coins minted. Featuring the 15-star design on the obverse, this coin is an integral part of early U.S. coinage history.

It is highly coveted by collectors, especially in Mint State, where only a few exceptional specimens exist, including two famous coins that have set auction records.

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Historical Context

The 1797 Draped Bust half dollar was minted at a time when the U.S. Mint was still in its infancy, producing small quantities of silver coins for circulation.

The coin’s obverse features 15 stars, representing the 15 states in the Union after Kentucky's admission. It is part of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was produced for only two years (1796 and 1797), making these coins extremely rare.

Surviving examples are scarce, especially in higher grades, and the 1797 issue is particularly sought after by collectors of early American silver coins.

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Specifications:

Size: Not listed
Denomination: 50 cents (½ dollar)
Gross Weight: Not listed
Actual Silver Weight: Approximately 0.36169 troy ounces of silver (based on later Draped Bust half dollars)
Fineness/Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
Diameter: 32.5 millimeters (approximate)
Thickness: Not listed
Specific Gravity: Not listed

Coin Description:

The obverse of the 1797 Draped Bust half dollar displays a portrait of Liberty with flowing hair, surrounded by 15 stars, representing the states of the Union. The reverse features the Small Eagle design, with the eagle holding a wreath in its beak and surrounded by the inscription "United States of America." The denomination "½" is displayed below the eagle. The 1797 half dollar is noted for its historical significance and the artistic representation of early U.S. coinage.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1797 Draped Bust half dollar is a key piece in early American coinage and is highly prized by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance. Only 2,984 coins were minted, and few have survived in Mint State. Two examples stand out in particular: the Norweb-Koshkarian coin and the Pogue Collection specimen. These coins have set multiple auction records, with the Norweb-Koshkarian coin selling for $1.38 million in 2008. The 1797 issue is even rarer than its 1796 counterpart, making it a must-have for serious collectors of U.S. half dollars.

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Numismatic Value:

The value of the 1797 Draped Bust half dollar varies dramatically depending on its condition. Even heavily worn examples command significant premiums due to their rarity, often fetching tens of thousands of dollars. Mint State examples are exceedingly rare and can sell for over a million dollars.

The finest known specimens, such as the Pogue Collection coin (graded MS-66 by PCGS), have set auction records, making the 1797 Draped Bust half dollar one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my half dollars?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your half dollars, including their silver content and numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my half dollars to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Flowing Hair half dollars, Walking Liberty half dollars, or Kennedy half dollars, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.

What types of half dollars does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. half dollars, including Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, Capped Bust, Seated Liberty, Barber, Walking Liberty, Franklin, and Kennedy half dollars, and other collectible half dollars. Whether your half dollars are valuable for their silver content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your half dollars after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.

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