1807 Small Stars

The 1807 Small Stars Capped Bust half dollar is the rarer of the two main 1807 obverse die groupings and one of the cornerstone varieties for early Bust half specialists. John Reich's new design rolled into production at the Philadelphia Mint in 1807, with total mintage of 750,500 pieces split across both Small Stars and Large Stars obverse dies plus several minor sub-varieties. The Small Stars dies were used less frequently than their Large Stars counterparts, and survival numbers reflect that. Visually, the stars are noticeably more compact and tighter to the central portrait, a distinction obvious once a collector has a reference plate in hand. The shorter production window also gave less opportunity for die clashes and dramatic die states, so Small Stars survivors often show cleaner fields than the longer-lived Large Stars examples from the same year.

Authentication relies on direct comparison with Overton plate photographs for the relevant O-numbers. The star size difference is measurable; counterfeit attempts to convert common Large Stars pieces into Small Stars are impractical and easily detected through device geometry. Genuine pieces weigh 13.48 grams and measure 32.5 mm in diameter, with the lettered edge reading FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR. Strike is often softer at the top of Liberty's cap and at the eagle's right shoulder feathers. Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) attribute Small Stars on holders when an Overton number accompanies submission, and many collectors specifically request this for resale clarity.

Population data places Small Stars examples roughly an order of magnitude scarcer than Large Stars across most grades, with the gap widening dramatically above Extremely Fine. Eye-appealing pieces with original surfaces and no rim damage attract registry collectors and fetch healthy premiums. For broader background on the design, see the Capped Bust Half Dollar series history.