1825

The 1825 Capped Bust Half Dollar continued the strong production output of the mid-1820s at the Philadelphia Mint, with a reported delivery of 2,943,166 pieces. This figure positions 1825 as a moderately high-mintage year, well below the peak of 1824 but comfortably above earlier dates in the series. The Mint produced the issue across numerous die marriages, each cataloged in Overton based on star placement, date position, and other identifying characteristics. Unlike 1823 and 1824, no major overdate or date-punch error varieties define 1825 for general collectors, which makes the year an accessible choice for those building a date set rather than pursuing variety completion.

Each example weighs 13.48 grams on a planchet of 89.24% silver, measures 32.5 millimeters in diameter, and carries the lettered edge inscription FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR applied through the Castaing machine. Authentication generally proceeds through standard checks including weight verification within the 13.30 to 13.60 gram range, edge lettering depth and orientation, and surface analysis for evidence of cleaning or alteration. The Overton reference catalogs more than a dozen die marriages for 1825, and attribution typically rests on relative positions of the date, stars, and design elements. Counterfeit detection focuses on weight, sound when struck, and characteristics of the lettered edge.

Auction supply remains healthy throughout the grade range, with circulated examples in Very Fine and Extremely Fine appearing regularly in major sales. Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) population reports show that About Uncirculated and Mint State examples appear in adequate numbers to satisfy ongoing demand from type collectors. Heritage Auctions sales records indicate that gem-quality pieces with attractive original toning continue to bring strong prices when offered. The 1825 frequently appears in type sets representing the Capped Bust half era. For context on the broader series, see the Capped Bust Half Dollar series history.