The Draped Bust half dime was introduced in 1796, following the Gilbert Stuarts design which had appeared the prior year on the silver dollar, and in 1796, would also be used on the dime, quarter and half dollar. Two reverses were used – the first featuring a small eagle (1796-1797) and the second portraying a heraldic eagle (1800-1805). No half dimes were struck in 1798, 1799 or 1804.

This type is quite difficult to locate in choice condition due to several factors. Their small size led to striking difficulties, and a majority of pieces found today display weakness, especially on the reverse. They circulated heavily as well, and most surviving pieces are in VF or lower condition. Mint state pieces are known however, and about 10% of the survivors are in that condition.

Following the end of production of Draped Bust half dimes in 1805, coinage of half dimes was suspended for 24 years, and did not resume until 1829 at which time John Reich’s Capped Bust motif was employed in their design.