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1814 4 over 3
| Weight | 13.48 g |
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint | Philadelphia |
| Strike | Circulation strike |
| Mintage | 1,039,075 Combined mintage for all 1814 varieties |
| Edge | Lettered (FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR) |
| Alignment | ↑↓ Coin |
| Composition | 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper |
| Melt value | — |
| Designer | John Reich |
| Collector's Key ID | CK-3711 |
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Other recorded varieties for 1814:
External references
The 1814/3 Capped Bust Half Dollar is a popular overdate variety created when a working die originally punched for 1813 was repurposed for 1814 production by overpunching the final 3 with a 4, leaving clear traces of the underlying digit beneath the new numeral. The variety holds a respected place among collectible early Capped Bust overdates, and its appearance in Al C. Overton's reference work established it as a standard inclusion in Overton variety sets. Like the other overdates of the period, it reflects the Philadelphia Mint's frugal practice of extending serviceable die life across calendar year transitions, particularly when dies showed enough remaining service capacity to justify the engraving rework.
The coin matches lettered edge era specifications at 13.48 grams, 32.5 mm in diameter, and 89.24% silver content, with FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR applied to the edge through Castaing machine impression before striking. Cataloged as Overton O-101 within the 1814 series, the overdate shows the original 3 most clearly at the right portion of the 4, where curves of the underlying digit project outward from the new numeral's vertical and horizontal strokes. Authentication requires confirming the diagnostic overdate features along with proper weight, diameter, and edge lettering. Strike characteristics follow the period's norms, with some softness possible at Liberty's curls above the ear and at the eagle's claw grip on the arrows and olive branch. Examine the edge inscription carefully, since this remains the most reliable single check against cast or pressed counterfeits.
The variety appeals strongly to Capped Bust specialists, and certified populations at Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) remain notably below those of the regular 1814 issue across all grade bands. Heritage Auctions records show consistent premiums for the overdate at every level. For broader context on the John Reich design and lettered edge production era, see our Capped Bust Half Dollar series history.
Reference data only — not an appraisal.
| Grade | Description | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | Good (G) | $157 | $181 |
| VG-8 | Very Good (VG) | $230 | $265 |
| F-12 | Fine (F) | $300 | $345 |
| VF-20 | Very Fine (VF) | $430 | $495 |
| EF-40 | Extremely Fine (EF) | $825 | $950 |
| AU-50 | About Uncirculated (AU) | $1,640 | $1,890 |
| MS-60 | Uncirculated (MS) | $3,670 | $4,235 |
| MS-63 | Choice Uncirculated (MS) | $9,030 | $9,565 |
How much is a 1814 4 over 3 Capped Bust Half Dollar worth?
How many 1814 4 over 3 Capped Bust Half Dollars were minted?
What is a 1814 4 over 3 Capped Bust Half Dollar made of?
What is the melt value of a 1814 4 over 3 Capped Bust Half Dollar?
Is the 1814 4 over 3 Capped Bust Half Dollar a key date?
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