1792 Half Disme – A Small Beginning for a New Nation
The original half disme was small enough to disappear in a pocket, yet its story reaches back to the beginnings of United States coinage. Intaglio Mint’s Judd 7 tribute presents that early design in a substantial 2 troy ounce .999 fine silver round. At 39mm, this modern interpretation gives the portrait, eagle and unusual inscriptions room to be appreciated.
Coinage Before the Mint Was Ready
In 1792, while the first United States Mint was still being built, 1,500 silver half dismes were produced in the cellar of a nearby Philadelphia building. Thomas Jefferson recorded receiving 1,500 pieces on July 13. That account connects the coin directly to the practical work of establishing a national currency.
The half disme represented five cents in the new decimal system. Its old-fashioned spelling and compact design belong to a formative moment, before the familiar denominations and imagery of later American coins had settled into place. This tribute recalls that beginning without presenting itself as an original 1792 issue.
Obverse Design
A bust of Liberty appears above the date 1792. The surrounding inscription, “LIB. PAR. OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY,” abbreviates “Liberty, Parent of Science and Industry.” It is an unusually thoughtful motto, linking freedom to learning and productive work rather than simply naming the denomination or country.
Reverse Design
An eagle occupies the center, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around it and “HALF DISME” below. The lower curve carries the modern hallmark, “TWO TROY OUNCES .999 FINE SILVER INTAGLIO MINT,” distinguishing the tribute’s weight, purity and maker from the historic design it celebrates.
Specifications
- Weight: 2 troy ounces
- Purity: .999 fine silver
- Diameter: 39mm
- Thickness: approximately 6mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
Explore more designs in our silver round collection.
