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1834

Half Dimes · Capped Bust Half Dimes · 1829–1837
Regular
Weight1.35 g
Diameter15.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 1,480,000 Combined mintage for all 1834 varieties
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
DesignerWilliam Kneass
Collector's Key IDCK-1023

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About this coinHistory

The 1834 had a mintage of 1,480,000 half dimes, continuing the high-production pattern of the early-to-mid 1830s. The Mint was operating at capacity, meeting strong demand for small silver coinage as the economy grew and retail commerce expanded. President Jackson censured the Senate for its resolution criticizing his bank policy, and the pet banks continued to receive federal deposits that the Second Bank of the United States had previously held.

The 1834 is a common date in all grades. Circulated examples are plentiful, and Uncirculated coins appear regularly in dealer inventories and at auction. The year is not distinguished by any major die varieties, though specialists track multiple die marriages under the Logan-McCloskey numbering system. For a type collector, the 1834 offers essentially identical content to the 1833 at comparable prices.

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 1834 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 1834 Capped Bust Half Dimes were minted?
1,480,000 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1834 varieties).
What is a 1834 Capped Bust Half Dime made of?
89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper, weighing 1.35 g.
What is the melt value of a 1834 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 1834 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.