What This Coin Looks Like (Obverse, Reverse, Mint Mark Location, Special Features, etc.): One major variety of the 1796 Liberty Cap Half Cent (Penny) features no pole on the obverse of the coin - which is normally standard in the lower-right corner of the liberty bust. This is one of the rarest and most valuable varieties of the half cents. The difference between the coins with the pole vs without the pole is depicted in the example comparison image below. Source of example image above and "no pole" variety below is courtesy of Heritage Auction Galleries:
Coin Value Chart: Typical Coin Prices, Values and Worth in USD based on Grade/Condition. Numismatic portion of the values last updated February 2026, precious metal portion of the values is updated live!