1828 Square 2, Large 8s

The 1828 Capped Bust Half Dollar with Square Base 2 and Large 8s is one of the most visually distinctive date varieties of the year, with both digits 8 appearing noticeably larger than those used on the Small 8 dies. The Square Base 2 carries the same flat, block-bottomed numeral style seen on certain 1827 dies, while the oversized 8s give the date a heavier, bolder appearance under magnification. Across the year's total mintage of 3,075,200 half dollars, this date configuration appears within a specific subset of Overton numbers that variety collectors target as a recognizable group. The Large 8 dies were prepared with a particular date logotype that mint engravers used on multiple working dies throughout the production cycle.

The Capped Bust Half Dollar specifications under John Reich's design held constant through 1828, including 89.24 percent silver content, 13.48 grams of weight, 32.5 millimeters in diameter, and the lettered edge inscription FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR. Authentication of the Square 2 Large 8s variety begins with side-by-side comparison of the date digits against published Overton plates. The digit 2 must show the squared block foot characteristic of the Square Base punch, while both 8s in the date should appear visibly larger than those found on the Small 8 dies of the same year. Variety attribution requires matching the entire die pairing rather than relying on date features alone, since reverse diagnostics including letter size and the position of the period after the denomination also contribute to the final Overton number assignment.

Heritage Auctions records and population data from Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) show this variety is reasonably available in circulated grades, with mint state examples appearing in the market at regular intervals throughout each auction cycle. The combination of a bold, easily recognized date and accessible pricing in worn condition makes this an approachable entry point for collectors beginning to work with 1828 Overton varieties. Specialists pursuing the complete catalog treat the Large 8s as a foundational group alongside the Small 8 and Curl Base dies. For deeper context on the design lineage and Philadelphia Mint operations, see the Capped Bust Half Dollar series history.