1804 Draped Bust Half Cent Plain 4, No Stems VF

The 1804 Draped Bust Half Cent with the Plain 4, No Stems variety is a noteworthy example of early U.S. coinage. This specific coin features a distinct design and minting features that make it highly collectible. Here’s a detailed product description:

1804 Draped Bust Half Cent – Plain 4, No Stems (VF)

Grade: VF (Very Fine)
Design Type: Draped Bust, Plain 4
Mint Year: 1804
Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia Mint)
Denomination: Half Cent
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 23.5 mm
Weight: 5.44 grams

Obverse:

• The obverse of the coin features the Draped Bust design, with Liberty facing right. She is draped in a flowing robe, with her hair tied in a loose bun and a ribbon in the back. The word LIBERTY is inscribed above her head, and the date 1804 appears below.
• Plain 4 is a notable feature on this coin, meaning the number “4” in the date lacks the small die chip or serif that appears in other varieties, making this variation distinctive.

Reverse:

• The reverse displays the traditional Half Cent design, with the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding a wreath of laurel and oak leaves. The value HALF CENT is centered within the wreath.
• The coin is of the No Stems variety, meaning the laurel and oak branches do not feature any small stems extending from the wreath. This was a minor design variation from other coins of the period that included stems on the wreath.

Grade: VF (Very Fine)

• A Very Fine grade coin like this one exhibits clear details throughout the design. On the obverse, Liberty’s features are distinguishable, though they may be lightly worn, and the date is still clearly visible. The reverse shows moderate wear, with the wreath and lettering still sharp and readable.
• While there is some evidence of circulation, the coin remains in excellent overall condition for its age, with significant details intact.

Historical Context:

• The 1804 Draped Bust Half Cent is part of the early copper coinage produced by the United States Mint, and it represents an important period in American numismatic history. The Draped Bust design was introduced by artist Robert Scot and was used on U.S. half cents from 1800 to 1808, marking a critical era in the development of U.S. coinage.

Collectibility:

• Coins from this era, especially in higher grades like VF, are highly prized by collectors. The 1804 Draped Bust Half Cent is particularly notable due to the variations in the date and wreath design, making it a coveted piece for those focused on U.S. early copper issues.

Key Features:

• Draped Bust design by Robert Scot
• Plain 4, No Stems variety
• Grade: Very Fine (VF)
• Early U.S. copper issue with significant historical value
• A well-preserved example of early American coinage

This coin is a fantastic addition for any collector of early American copper, especially those focused on variations and the development of U.S. Mint designs.