Crossing the Block: A Helping of Half Dimes (and Half Dismes)

By Jeff Lubinski, Numismatist

Of the thousands of amazing coins I see each week, these few stood out.  Today’s first coin is a true historical treasure.  According to most sources, the 1792 half disme is considered to be the first coin struck under the Mint Act of 1792 and was praised by President Washington as a small step towards our nation’s monetary future.  The present example is likely one of the most affordable, given its grade of Fine details by PCGS, noting some damage on a code 98.  The coin itself is fairly well struck, though worn, and still bears the prominent S of DISME on the reverse, a unique trait to half dimes and dimes of 1792 (the spelling that is).  The obverse has plenty of eye appeal to make up for the damage on the reverse, and alone, the reverse is certainly acceptable for a coin with fine details.  As this piece is one of an estimated 400 survivors of an original estimated mintage of 2,500-3,000 pieces, I’m sure there will be nice bidding war. Listed as #14 in Garrett’s 100 Greatest U.S. Coins, this will be a true centerpiece of an advanced collection.

Today’s second coin is a 1795 half dime with details in the EF range, though we’ll leave the final say to PCGS.  The obverse is very appealing with traces of mint luster, scattered contact marks and some wear on higher points of the hair.  The reverse displays some typical weakness mixed with wear on the eagle’s breast, as well as some wear along the rim and wreath.  Personally, I find the Flowing Hair design used on the silver coinage of 1794-5 to be one of the most attractive ever produced by the U.S. Mint. This coin would make an excellent addition to a type set of early U.S. or Flowing Hair coinage.

The final coin for today is another half dime, this one bearing the date 1796 and displaying details in the AU range.  There is a little bit of damage noted on the reverse, perhaps traces of a distant brushing.  The coin has been cleaned and wiped though is starting to retone and has appealing flashy surfaces and ample eye-appeal.  This will also be a nice addition to a type set of early U.S. or Bust coinage.