1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar Tribute – 2 Troy Ounce Silver Round

A tiny mintmark can carry an extraordinary story. Our 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar Tribute celebrates one of American numismatics’ great rarities in 2 troy ounces of .999 fine silver. Liberty’s capped portrait and the eagle reverse recall a formative moment in the history of the New Orleans branch mint.

A Rarity with an Unfinished Story

New Orleans began issuing coins in 1838, joining Charlotte and Dahlonega in the United States’ expansion beyond the Philadelphia Mint. The “O” identified the Louisiana branch, and the 1838-O half dollar became one of the most celebrated pieces associated with its beginnings.

The circumstances of the original half dollars remain debated. Official records do not settle their total mintage, and numismatic researchers have examined both New Orleans trial-striking evidence and a theory involving Philadelphia presentation pieces. That uncertainty is part of the coin’s fascination: its importance rests not only on rarity, but also on the questions it preserves about early branch-mint operations.

Obverse Design

Liberty faces left wearing her Liberty cap. Six stars follow the left side of the border and seven follow the right, framing the portrait with thirteen stars in all. The date and mintmark appear below, keeping the small “O” that makes this tribute’s subject so distinctive.

Reverse Design

An eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” follows the upper border, while “2 TROY OUNCES” and the hallmark below identify the modern silver tribute. The historic half-dollar design is the inspiration; this piece is a contemporary silver round.

Specifications

• Weight: 2.00 troy ounces
• Metal: .999 fine silver
• Diameter: 39 mm
• Thickness: Approximately 6 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated

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