The Unexpected Appeal of an 1830 Holed 5 Cents Coin

I recently picked up an 1830 5 cents coin with a hole in it, and it opened my eyes to some fascinating numismatic quirks I just have to share. Like many of you, I’ve found that flaws like holes can actually add character and value to a coin’s story. Let me tell you why this piece deserves more than a passing glance in your collection.

What Exactly Is This Coin?

First things first: this is technically a Half-Disme—and yes, that spelling is correct! It’s cataloged as H10 in most references and belongs to the Capped Bust series, which started showing “5 C” on the reverse back in 1829. Here’s something cool: the first actual “nickel” coin didn’t appear until 1866 with the Shield Nickel. So when you hold one of these, you’re touching a real piece of America’s early coinage history.

Why a Hole Isn’t a Deal-Breaker

We often dismiss holed coins too quickly—I know I used to. But this one made me rethink things. Back in the 1800s, people commonly holed coins to thread them on strings or chains for safekeeping during travel. That hole isn’t just damage; it’s a historical artifact telling its own story. Many collectors now seek out holed examples because they’re affordable yet genuinely valuable. I’ve watched coins like this perform surprisingly well in auctions, often becoming permanent “keepers” rather than placeholders. With how scarce and sought-after early U.S. coins are, a holed version might be your smartest option for this date.

Attribution and Rarity Insights

When I looked closer, I realized this could be an LM-1.1 die remarriage—rated R-6 (very rare) versus the more common LM-1.2 at R-4. That rarity bump could mean double the value or more! But here’s the tricky part: I couldn’t confirm it without razor-sharp photos. The differences between LM-1.1 and 1.2 are tiny, so if you’re checking one, start with high-quality images and compare them side-by-side with known examples.

Practical Tips for Collectors

If you come across a coin like this, here’s what I’d suggest:

• Get better photos: Use a macro lens or bright lighting to capture details—it makes all the difference for attribution.
• Check the market: Watch auction results for holed coins; they often sell better than you’d guess.
• Consider condition: Even with a hole, check the rest of the coin—sharp details on Liberty’s bust or the lettering boost its appeal.
• Embrace the history: Don’t avoid holed coins; they spark great conversations and anchor themed collections of early U.S. currency.

For me, this 1830 holed 5 cents turned out to be a real find. It shows how “flaws” can deepen our appreciation for the hobby, giving us affordable windows into rare series. If you’ve got one, treasure it—and grab those close-up shots!