1832-P (Philadelphia) Capped Bust Half Dime

Coin / United States of America / 1832 / Philadelphia / Capped Bust Half Dime / 5¢ (Five Cents, Nickel, Half Dime)

The coin in question is an 1832 Capped Bust Half Dime, a denomination of five cents, minted in Philadelphia (Mint Mark 'P'). It is composed of silver, reflecting the high-quality materials used during that era. This particular coin has the distinction of being a Proof type, which was a method of striking coins often reserved for collectors and resulted in a higher level of detail and finish. With a diameter of 15.5 mm and a weight of 1.35 grams, the Half Dime exemplifies the classic design of the Capped Bust series. Its obverse features the iconic profile of Liberty, adorned with a cap and surrounded by stars, while the reverse depicts an eagle, symbolizing the strength and unity of the nation. A noteworthy property of this specific coin is that it has a reported mintage of zero. This could suggest that no coins were officially minted for circulation or that there are very few known examples, adding to its potential rarity and desirability among collectors. As a piece of American numismatic history, the 1832 Capped Bust Half Dime holds both collectible and intrinsic value, making it a significant addition to any coin collection. Collectors are especially interested in its condition and rarity, with proof strikes typically being of higher value than their business strike counterparts.