Designed by: Christian Gobrecht
Issue Dates: 1836-1837
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 30 mm
Weight: 13.36 grams (206.17 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Business Strike Mintage: 3,631,020
Proof Mintage: Fewer than 40

In 1836, steam-powered presses were introduced to the Philadelphia Mint, and one of the first innovations was a new half dollar format. John Reich's Capped Bust style was modified by Christian Gobrecht. The result was a coin of smaller diameter, with reeded edge, displaying at center the older design of Miss Liberty facing left, wearing a cloth cap with a band inscribed LIBERTY, with tresses falling to her shoulder, and with her bosom draped in a gown secured by a brooch. Six stars are to the left and seven to the right. The date is below. The reverse depicts an eagle perched on a branch and holding three arrows with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA above and the denomination expressed as 50 CENTS below.

1836 half dollars of the reeded edge format were produced to the extent of just 1,200 pieces and are rare in all grades today. 1837 half dollars were minted in a quantity of 3,629,820 and are relatively plentiful in grades from Good through Extremely Fine. AU coins are scarce, and strictly Uncirculated pieces are scarcer yet. Superb Uncirculated coins are rare.