What is the half dollar made of? This question often arises when people examine the composition of coins in their collections or when they are curious about the history and craftsmanship behind this iconic American coin. The half dollar, which has been minted in various forms since 1794, has undergone several changes in its composition over the years. Understanding the materials used to make the half dollar can provide insight into the coin’s significance and its place in American numismatic history.
The original half dollar, known as the Flowing Hair Half Dollar, was minted from 1794 to 1795. It was made primarily of silver, with a composition of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper. This silver content was necessary to ensure that the coin held its value and could be used as currency. The silver used in the early half dollars was typically the same as that used in other silver coins of the time, such as the dime and quarter.
In 1839, the composition of the half dollar was changed to a combination of 90% silver and 10% copper, known as the Seated Liberty Half Dollar. This change was made to reduce the cost of minting the coin and to ensure that it was still a valuable piece of currency. The new composition continued to be used until 1866, when the silver content was reduced to 89.24% and the copper content was increased to 10.76%.
During the Civil War, the minting of half dollars was suspended from 1861 to 1865. However, during this period, a few private minters produced half dollars with a silver content of 50% silver and 50% copper. These coins are known as Civil War half dollars and are highly sought after by collectors today.
In 1873, the silver content of the half dollar was further reduced to 40% silver and 60% copper. This change was made to address the nation’s financial situation at the time. The silver content was eventually increased to 90% in 1876, coinciding with the nation’s centennial celebration. The 90% silver composition remained in place until 1971, when the United States switched to a decimal currency system.
After 1971, the half dollar was minted in base metals, primarily copper and nickel. The composition of these modern half dollars is 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel. While these coins are not made of silver, they still retain their value as legal tender and are popular among collectors for their design and history.
In conclusion, the half dollar has been made of various materials throughout its history, reflecting the changing economic and political landscapes of the United States. From the early silver coins to the modern base metal pieces, the half dollar has played a significant role in American numismatic history and continues to be a popular coin among collectors today.
