We have a low grade start to a Capped Bust Half set, that my son and me have picked up inexpensively over some years, and I’ve observed that a number of our esteemed forum members are very knowledgeable with regard to attribution of varieties of same. First off, what are the best resources for this effort? Are there any that you can recommend online, in addition to any books that would be helpful? Secondly, any suggestions for varieties for these to get us started on our way? Also! I’ve started using that short stack of books / bottle cap method for my photographs with my iPhone and these are the best I’ve ever taken (which is not to say they are very good, but just much better), so thank you!!!! We have: 1811 x 2, 1818, 1823, 1825 x 2, 1827, 1830, 1833 (O-104, R-1, thanks Treashunt & OKbustchaser!), 1835, 1836 (lettered edge) and 1838. Also, please post pics of any interesting Capped Bust nags that you like!
Continued (I just discovered there are picture limits on threads, lol). Should I post pictures of the reverses?
You'll need at least two books and a computer. United States Early Half Dollar Die Varieties 1794-1836. I use 4th ed. by Parsley it has replaced my original book by Overton. Next is the Ultimate Guide to Attributing Bust Half Dollars by Glenn Peterson. When you think you have the coin attributed, go online and look for examples of that Overton number. The reeded edge coins of 1836 - 1839 have their own reference.
In general, you will need the reverses to be able to attribute them. The exception would be if the obverse die was only paired with one reverse die. The best online resource I can currently find is here: http://maibockaddict.com/capped-bust-half-dollars
Thanks Insider! Per your suggestion I just bought (it appears to be an older edition, used for $20 plus shipping) - Early Half Dollar Die Varieties, 1794-1836 Revised Edition Also, thanks NSP!