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1833

Half Dimes · Capped Bust Half Dimes · 1829–1837
Regular
Weight1.35 g
Diameter15.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 1,370,000
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
DesignerWilliam Kneass
Collector's Key IDCK-1021

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About this coinHistory

Mintage for 1833 was 1,370,000 half dimes, the highest single-year output of the Capped Bust series to that point. The economy was expanding, small-change demand was rising, and Philadelphia responded with larger production runs. Jackson's Bank War reached its peak during the year when the president ordered federal deposits withdrawn from the Second Bank of the United States and redistributed to state-chartered "pet banks," setting in motion the events that would lead to the Panic of 1837 four years later.

The 1833 is the most common circulation strike Capped Bust half dime and the natural choice for a type coin representing the series. Uncirculated examples are available, though fully struck gems with attractive toning command premiums over typical mint-state coins. The design's eagle reverse is often softly struck on the breast, a characteristic weak point that affects even high-grade examples.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $54 $62
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $68 $79
F-12 Fine (F) $81 $94
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $107 $124
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $155 $179
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $245 $285
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $325 $375
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $960 $1,015
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1833 Capped Bust Half Dime worth?
In Good condition it runs about $54–$62, rising to roughly $325–$375 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1833 Capped Bust Half Dimes were minted?
1,370,000 were struck.
What is a 1833 Capped Bust Half Dime made of?
89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper, weighing 1.35 g.
What is the melt value of a 1833 Capped Bust Half Dime?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1833 Capped Bust Half Dime a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.