1796 50C 16 Stars Draped Bust Half Dollar PCGS VF25

A landmark early American rarity, this 1796 Draped Bust, Small Eagle Half Dollar (16 Stars) certified PCGS VF25 represents the first year of the denomination and the rarest silver type in U.S. coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with the fleeting Small Eagle reverse, the 1796–1797 type is coveted by advanced specialists and prized by type collectors alike; even low-grade examples command strong demand. In Very Fine 25, this example delivers balanced detail and honest circulation, offering a scarce opportunity to secure a pedigreed Federal-era cornerstone without entering six-figure mint state territory. Two obverse star counts were produced in 1796 as the Mint adjusted for Tennessee’s statehood: 15 Stars and the scarcer 16 Stars. Of the 1796 total mintage of just 934 pieces, research estimates attribute only about 365 to the 16 Stars variety versus roughly 569 for 15 Stars—yet seasoned market observers note the 16 Stars surprisingly appears at auction as often as the 15 Stars. Survivors are few, and the finest known of either 1796 variety is a dramatic PCGS MS66 (16 Stars). Notable pedigreed examples include an AU55 from the Naples III Collection and the famous Norweb 16 Stars, today recorded in a PCGS VF25. Key highlights Date/Type/Variety: 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar, Small Eagle, 16 Stars Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark) Grade: PCGS VF25 Estimated mintage (1796): 934 total; approximately 365 (16 Stars) and 569 (15 Stars) Type rarity: The 1796–1797 Draped Bust, Small Eagle Half Dollar is widely considered the rarest U.S. silver type coin Population: PCGS Pop 5; only 12 higher Market appeal: A scarce, problem-free mid-grade example with strong collector demand across type and early half dollar specialties Notable context: Finest known is PCGS MS66 (16 Stars); famous holdings include Naples III (AU55) and the Norweb 16 Stars (now PCGS VF25) Why this coin Historic first-year issue capturing the fledgling nation’s artistry and the seldom-seen Small Eagle design Scarcer 16 Stars obverse with mintage estimates substantially lower than the 15 Stars counterpart Desirable VF25 level offering clear devices and pleasing, circulated character at a more approachable price point than higher-grade pieces Specifications Denomination: 50C (Half Dollar) Composition: Silver (standard early U.S. alloy) Diameter: Approximately 32.5 mm Edge: Lettered Certification details Grading service: PCGS Population notes: PCGS Pop 5; 12 coins graded higher CAC: N/A Pedigree on label: None SEO keywords: 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar 16 Stars PCGS VF25, Small Eagle half dollar, rare early American silver coin, Philadelphia Mint 1796 50C, early U.S. type coin, 1796-1797 Draped Bust half for sale. A seldom-offered chance to acquire a true Federal-era trophy, this PCGS VF25 1796 16 Stars Half Dollar is a blue-chip addition to any advanced cabinet and an inspired centerpiece for a premium type set. Secure it while available.