Conrad kocher 1838 half dollar

Value of 1838 Reeded Edge Capped Bust Half Dollar

Guidelines for Collecting: The year 1838 again saw a good number of Reeded Edge half dollars minted, and examples are readily obtainable today.

Conrad kocher 1838 half dollar

For collectors wanting an example of the type with the denomination expressed as HALF DOL., both 1838 and 1839 are good choices, with 1838 slightly more available. Similar to 1837, strike quality varies, so collectors should be patient before adding coins to their collection.

Areas to look out for include the obverse stars, Liberty’s hair and drapery, the eagle’s feathers and the dentils. Sixteen obverse and reverse die pairs are known, of which only one (GR-5) is particularly difficult to find.

Again, only a few dedicated specialists collect by die varieties.
Availability: Like the 1837, circulated and Mint State pieces are easily obtainable, with the majority of pieces found today in the mid circulated grades.

Uncirculated