Bust Halves

John Reich designed the Capped Bust Lettered Edge Half Dollar  minted from 1807-1836. The lettered  Edged Bust Half shows brilliant waves of curls topped with a liberty cap on the obverse and the reverse, an Eagle with spread wings and shield. The Capped Bust Reeded Edge designed by Christian Gobrect was minted from 1836-1839. The 1838-O was the first branch mint half dollar. The New Orleans chief coiner stated that only 20 were minted. Although the Capped Bust Half Dollar are early minted Half Dollars, they are more affordable for collectors than later Half Dollars.