Liberty Cap
The Liberty Cap Half Cent was minted in two different editions: the Head Left (issued in 1793) and the Head Right (issued from 1794 to 1797). The 1793 Half Cent is a rare date. It was among the first coins issued by the U.S. Mint. The rarest date for the Liberty Cap series is the 1796 year. By the way, the year 1799 did not see any Half Cents issued by the U.S. Mint.
Draped Burst
The Draped Bust Half Cent is a true Jeffersonian coin. Why? The Draped Bust half cent existed from 1800 to 1808, the exact span of years that Thomas Jefferson was President.
Braided Hair
Also referred to as the Braided Hair type, the Coronet Head half cent was minted from 1840 to 1857. The Coronet was in fact the final issue of half cents in the U.S., as this denomination was abolished by the Act of February 21, 1857.
The design for these coins was furnished by Christian Gobrecht, the Mint's chief engraver. They display the "Petite Head" of Liberty, as seen on the cents of 1839-43, though its orientation to the stars and the date anticipated the later "Mature Head" cents of 1843-57.Conclusion
While the average collector may never accumulate a collection to match the likes of Eliasberg or Pittman, it is a fact that the gains achieved by any investor, who invests in the correct coins, can enjoy rewarding percentage returns on investment (ROI) over time.
Whether collecting rare U.S. coins is for a hobby or investment, it is important to do thorough research about market trends and coin values. Today's sophistication of the internet ecommerce allows for the easy accumulation and trading of rare U.S. coins.
Rare US Coin - Half Cent History