My Deep Dive into the 1830 Holed Half-Disme: Collecting Gems with Holes

I’ve always been drawn to coins that tell a story, and the 1830 holed Half-Disme is one that really grabbed me. It’s not just damaged—that hole is a direct link to how people used money back then. I think it’s a piece that every collector should consider having.

What Exactly Is This Coin?

Let’s start with the basics: it’s a Half-Disme (and yes, that’s spelled correctly). You’ll find it as H10 in catalogs. A lot of folks confuse it with later 5-cent coins, but the “5 C” marking didn’t show up until the Capped Bust in 1829. And the first actual nickel coin? That was the Shield Nickel, which didn’t appear until 1866. So this little piece is a genuine artifact from an earlier time.

That Hole? It’s Not What You Think

Sure, a hole in a coin might look like a flaw that ruins it. But in reality, it’s a piece of history. Back in the day, people often holed coins to string them on a piece of twine or a chain for safekeeping. For me, that hole adds a layer of authenticity I really appreciate. And don’t think that hole makes it worthless:

• Many collectors specifically look for holed coins because they love the stories they tell
• Given how tough it is to find an affordable 1830 Half-Disme without a hole, this could be a permanent piece in your collection
• If there’s a suspension loop attached, that’s a neat historical touch—but whether that makes it better is really up to you and the coin’s condition

Figuring Out Which Variety You Have

For the 1830 Half-Disme, those die varieties (LM-1.1 and LM-1.2) really matter. LM-1.1 is the scarcer one, rated R-6, while LM-1.2 is R-4. That means LM-1.1 could be worth more. To tell them apart, you’ll need to spot those die markers. But here’s the catch: fuzzy photos make this impossible. If you’re checking one out, always insist on clear, high-resolution pictures. It makes all the difference in understanding what you’ve got.

My Tips for Collectors

From what I’ve seen, holed coins like this one can still attract serious bidding in online auctions. My advice? Watch recent sales on eBay to see what they’re actually selling for. If you own one, treat it right: get good photos, dig into its background, and note its rarity. In my experience, holed coins aren’t just placeholders—they’re your ticket to owning rare types without emptying your wallet, and they often gain value over time.

So there you have it. The 1830 holed Half-Disme takes what some might see as a flaw and turns it into a fascinating piece of history. If you come across one, take the time to appreciate its story, get clear pictures, and you might just find a coin that becomes a beloved part of your collection.