The Classic Head Half Cent was issued for a longer duration of years than the previous designs for the denomination, although several gaps in production reduce the scope of the series. The obverse design of the coin features a rendition of Liberty with rolling curls of hair and a hair band with the inscription “Liberty”. The reverse design features an alteration of the precious laurel wreath design, with the wreath fully closed and the denomination at center.
The new half cent design was introduced in 1809, after being released on the large cent the year earlier. Although the design would be struck until the mid 1830s, the total series only includes only thirteen different dates. From 1812 to 1824 and again in 1827 and 1830 no half cents were struck for circulation. It is believed that 1831 saw a very limited number of coins struck for circulation, but the debate continues as to whether all pieces produced were proofs. The series ended in 1835, with the 1836 Classic Head Half Cent being a proof-only date and a heralded rarity.
The Classic Head Half Cent series contains a relatively small number of dates, with a limited number of dies used for each date, but many of these are very interesting and a worth a closer look. This site will provide coin collectors with a basic history of the Classic Head Half Cent series, information about the coin design, and details about some of the notable issues and rarities of series.