The 1811 Classic Head Half Cent (Buy on eBay) is considered to be the key date coin of the series amongst circulation strikes. The issue has a total mintage of 63,140 pieces across two different varieties. Circulated examples are somewhat available, but the issue becomes rare in higher grades. There are an estimated 10 examples known in mint state grades.
The two varieties, known as the “wide date” and “close date,” are identified by the spacing between the digits of the date. Both varieties are valued similarly, although the “wide date” is considered slightly scarcer.
An unofficial restrike of the 1811 Half Cent was produced outside of the United States Mint by Joseph Mickley, supposedly from dies sold as scrap metal. The obverse was struck from a genuine 1811 die paired with a reverse die from 1802. While not a genuine U.S. Mint product, these restrikes are very rare and always in demand, with about a dozen pieces known.
Coin Specifications
- Mint Mark: None
- Designer: John Reich
- Composition: Copper
- Weight: 5.44 grams
- Diameter: 23.5 mm
- Edge: Plain
