1831-P (Philadelphia) Capped Bust Half Dime

Coin / United States of America / 1831 / Philadelphia / Capped Bust Half Dime / 5¢ (Five Cents, Nickel, Half Dime)

The coin in question is a Capped Bust Half Dime, minted in 1831 at the Philadelphia Mint (designated by the mint mark 'P'). This coin represents the five-cent denomination, also known as a half dime, and is composed of silver. Measuring 15.5 mm in diameter and weighing approximately 1.35 grams, the Capped Bust Half Dime showcases the iconic design of the Capped Bust motif, which features the profile of Liberty capped with a soft cap on the obverse side, while the reverse reveals an eagle perched on a shield. This particular coin is notable for its mintage of 1,242,700 pieces, reflecting its status as a widely produced collectible during that era. As a part of the coinage of the United States, the 1831 Capped Bust Half Dime serves as both a historical artifact and a cherished item among numismatists, particularly those focused on pre-Civil War American coinage. Given its age and the condition can vary widely, the value of this coin can fluctuate based on its grade, with well-cared-for examples command higher premiums in the collector market.