Mintage:
Circulation strikes: 1,215,567
Proofs: Rumored to exist

Designer: John Reich

Diameter: ±32-33 millimeters

Metal content:
Silver - 89.2%
Copper - 10.8%

Weight:  208 grains (13.48 grams)

Edge: Lettered ("FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR")

Mintmark: None (all 1817 Half Dollars were struck at the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Mint)

Images courtesy of Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.

Varieties:
Overton 101  
Overton 102 - 1817/4 overdate - 7 known
Overton 103  
Overton 104  
Overton 105  
Overton 106  
Overton 107  
Overton 108  
Overton 109  
Overton 110  
Overton 111  
Overton 112  
Overton 113 

Recent appearances:
See variety listings

Notes:
The finest example graded by PCGS is a single MS-66.

The finest "1817/3" example graded by PCGS are 3 MS-64's.

The finest "1817/4" example graded by PCGS is a single AU-50.

The finest "181.7" example graded by PCGS is a single AU-58.

Sources and/or recommended reading:
Al C. Overton, "Early Half Dollar Varieties 1794-1836"

"The PCGS Population Report, April 2003" by The Professional Coin Grading Service