So you know all about the United States of America "Capped Bust" coins (often erroneously referred to as "Turban Head"). The cap represents freedom and dates back to the Ancient Roman Phrygian caps which were given to former slaves when freedom was restored or bestowed on them by some heroic deed or by completing a tenure of servitude. Take a look at these silver "Capped Bust" coins (photos courtesy of Coin Page): 1835 Half Dime: http://www.coinpage.com/coin-image-2621.html 1832 Dime: http://www.coinpage.com/coin-image-7134.html 1835 Quarter: http://www.coinpage.com/coin-image-5142.html 1835 Half Dollar: http://www.coinpage.com/coin-image-6326.html Now check out these "Capped Bust" gold Quarter Eagles, Half Eagles and Eagles (photos courtesy of Coin Site) Scroll down to coin photo: 1821 Quarter Eagle ($2.50): http://www.coinsite.com/content/coinpics/1821G2E.asp 1818 Half Eagle ($5): http://www.coinsite.com/content/coinpics/1818G5E.asp And now look at the "Capped Bust" Gold Eagle: 1804 Capped Bust Eagle ($10): http://www.coinsite.com/content/coinpics/1804GXE.asp Did you notice the difference in the " Freedom Caps"? On all the minor silver coins the "Cap" is folded forward. On the gold Quarter Eagle and Half Eagle coins the "Cap" is folded backwards. The "Cap" on the gold Eagle has no fold. Thought you'd like to know... Clinker
Thanks as always, Clinker ! One of the things odd about the earliest gold a la the 1804 mentioned above is the odd placement of a lock of hair, which wraps around the cap. It looks like cloth, and is perhaps why some called it a turban. Does anyone know the earliet reference to these as turban ? Was it contemporary ? My guess is it was much more recent - started by numismatists.
900fine Good to hear from you. I tried to find out before posting, but no luck. Maybe some member can answer that... Clinker
No, sure don't. While I do not collect those early American coins, I find it interesting to read about and see them, as in this case. The different "cap orientations", now that is something I just was not aware of. Thanks! Christian
Just replaced a problem capped bust half from my childhood today. Funny this thread comes about. Thanks Clinker
