1811 Small 8

The 1811 Small 8 Capped Bust Half Dollar is the scarcer date-style variant of the year, drawn from the combined Philadelphia output of 1,203,644 pieces and identified by the noticeably shorter and narrower second digit in the date logotype. Where the Large 8 version uses a broader, more imposing numeral, the Small 8 dies carry a digit that sits lower in profile and runs about 1.2 mm in height, a subtle but decisive cue once the eye is trained. This variant captures the period when the Philadelphia Mint was still refining its punch and logotype inventory, and the coexistence of two distinct 8 sizes within a single year illustrates the workshop-level variability that early American coinage routinely produced.

Specifications match the lettered edge era standard at 13.48 grams, 32.5 mm in diameter, and 89.24% silver content, with the edge bearing FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR applied through Castaing machine impression before the obverse and reverse were struck in a plain collar. The Small 8 examples are recorded under Overton O-107, O-108, and O-109 die marriages, and authentication should compare the 8's height directly against the 1 and final digit, since the Small 8 sits roughly 80 to 85% the height of those surrounding numerals. Look also for typical early die-state features such as light clash marks on the eagle's shield and minor cracks radiating from the rim. Genuine specimens display sharp lettered edge characters with proper kerning, and any blurring of the edge inscription should raise concerns about cast or pressed counterfeits.

Collector demand favors the Small 8 specifically because of its lower survival rate, and certified populations at Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) sit below comparable Large 8 totals across most grade bands. Heritage Auctions records show consistent premiums for problem-free examples. For the historical arc of John Reich's design and the lettered edge era, see our Capped Bust Half Dollar series history.