Designed by: William Kneass
Issue Dates: 1834-1836
Composition: 89.92% gold, 10.08% copper
Diameter: 22.5 mm
Weight: 8.36 grams (129.01 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Proof Mintage: Fewer than 50
Following the Act of June 28, 1834, which reduced the weight and composition of gold coins, the half eagle was redesigned by William Kneass, chief engraver at the Philadelphia Mint. Known as the "Classic Head" style, the new 1834 issue is a cousin to the quarter eagle of the same date. The obverse depicts the head of Miss Liberty facing left, her hair secured by a band inscribed LIBERTY, with stars circling her head, and with the date below. The reverse shows an eagle with a shield on its breast, perched on an olive branch and holding three arrows. The inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 5 D. surrounds. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, used earlier, was discontinued. Half eagles of this style were produced at the Philadelphia Mint continuously from 1834 through 1838 and at Charlotte and Dahlonega in 1838 only. Most of the mintage was accomplished at Philadelphia. Charlotte and Dahlonega pieces are rare.
The type set collector can readily obtain examples of Philadelphia issues in this span in grades from Very Fine to Extremely Fine. AU coins are scarce, Uncirculated pieces are elusive, and superb Uncirculated coins are very rare. Most examples are not sharply struck on the higher parts of the obverse.
