The 1796 Liberty Cap Half Cent is a significant coin in American numismatics, representing one of the earliest issues of the denomination. The "No Pole" variety refers to a distinctive feature found on the reverse (back) side of some specimens of this coin.
In the "No Pole" variety, the Liberty Cap on the reverse of the coin lacks the pole that typically extends from the top of the cap.
Instead, the cap appears without this feature, resulting in a simplified design. This variety is considered a die variation and is sought after by collectors due to its rarity and distinctiveness.
Designed by Robert Scot, the obverse (front) of the 1796 Liberty Cap Half Cent features a bust of Liberty facing right, with flowing hair and a liberty cap on her head.
The word "LIBERTY" appears above her head, and the date is positioned below. The reverse displays a wreath encircling the denomination "HALF CENT," with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the periphery.
The 1796 Liberty Cap Half Cent was struck in relatively low quantities and faced extensive circulation, leading many examples to exhibit signs of wear and damage.
Additionally, the early minting process was not as precise as modern methods, resulting in variations in strike quality and die characteristics among surviving specimens.
Owning a specimen of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, particularly in the "Small Date - Small Letters" variety, offers collectors a tangible connection to the early days of the United States Mint and the nation's coinage system.
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