1847

Philadelphia produced 1,274,000 half dimes in 1847, a dramatic recovery from the 1846 key-date mintage. Production returned to normal levels after the mysterious one-year drop, and the 1847 is once again a common date available in circulated grades without difficulty. The Mexican-American War was in its second year, and American forces were moving toward Mexico City. The half dime circulated through the war years, handling small-change transactions in the expanding American economy.

Surviving 1847 half dimes are plentiful. The design continues unchanged, the strike quality is generally good, and Uncirculated examples exist in meaningful numbers. A well-preserved 1847 with attractive toning represents the date well at a moderate price. For collectors assembling a complete date set, the 1847 provides relief after the challenge of the 1846 key.