BY  CHUCK  HAVILAND

The US half dollar was first minted in 1794 – 1795.  Its composition was approximately 90 % silver.  It was known as the “Flowing Hair” half dollar and is considered to be very rare.

From 1796 – 1797 the “Draped Bust” with the small eagle, half dollar was minted, with the same composition.

The “Draped Bust” with the Heraldic Eagle was minted from 1801 – 1807, with same composition.

The “Capped Bust” was minted from 1807 – 1836, with the same composition. The first style was minted from 1807 – 1808, its main differences was the use of small & large stars.