Half Dimes were first struck 1794, and discontinued in 1873. Half Dimes are separated into early half dimes, which were minted between 1794 and 1837 and Seated Liberty Half Dimes which were minted between 1838 and 1873. Early Half Dimes were composed of .8924 Silver and .1076 Copper. Seated Liberty Half Dimes were composed of .900 Silver and .100 Copper. Authorized by the Act of April 2, 1792, half dimes would have the same designs as larger United States Coins. Even though dated 1794, the first Half Dimes were not minted until February of 1795.