1834 Half Eagle - 1834 $5 Classic Plain 4, PCGS AU55. This Choice Almost Uncirculated 1834 Half Eagle is the first of the Classic Head type. The coin is well struck with full details on the centers of the stars, the higher areas of Libertys hair, and the reverse rims. Bright mint luster remains within the coins devices and in protected areas. The coin shows slight wear, in keeping with the grade. The surfaces are original clean with no notable individually distracting abrasion marks.

William Kneass designed the Classic Head half eagle, which was minted from 1834 to 1838. He chose to use Reichs Classic Head motif that was used on large cents of 1808 to 1814. Kneass also adapted Reichs eagle from the five dollar piece of 1807. The design of the coin shows a profile of Liberty facing left. Her curly hair is held with a band that is inscribed LIBERTY. She is surrounded by thirteen six-pointed stars, with the date below. Around the periphery are dentils on both sides. The coin has a reeded edge.

The reverse shows a heraldic eagle whose head is turned to the left. In its talons it holds the olive branch and arrows, symbols peace and preparedness. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appears in an interrupted arc around the coin with the denomination, written as 5 D. below. Missing is the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, which was removed from the reverse to signify the change in weight from 135 grains to 129. It seems that Mint Director Samuel Moore was looking for a reason to phase out the motto for several years, and the change in weight mandated by Congress was the perfect opportunity. The weight and fineness of the coin were changed in order to prevent continued melting for bullion purposes. As a result most of the original gold coins that were minted prior to1834 were turned in to the mint, much of it to be used to make the new half eagles.

Kneass (pronounced Niece) was the second Chief Engraver. He served from 1824 until his death in 1840. In addition to the Classic Head Half Eagle, his classic head motif was used on the quarter eagles of 1834 to 1839. Kneass modified Reichs Capped Bust motif for silver coinage for the years 1829 to 1837 and the half dime in 1829.