Price Guide for 1802 Half Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $28.00 – $70,500.00Uncirculated: $24,150.00 – $117,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,475.00 – $13,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $60,000.00Uncirculated: $85,000.00 – $150,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $763.75 – $55,812.50Uncirculated: $44,650.00 – $126,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,195.00 – $1,302.77
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $60,000.00Uncirculated: $85,000.00 – $150,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1802 Half Dollar
The 1802 Half Dollar is part of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was produced from 1796 to 1807. This coin represents a crucial period in early American coinage, as the young nation was establishing its monetary system. The year 1802 is particularly significant for Half Dollars, as it is considered one of the rarest dates in the series.
| Weight | 13.48 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint marks (Philadelphia Mint only) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design, featuring Liberty facing right with flowing hair, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small Eagle design, with a heraldic eagle holding arrows and olive branch, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1802 Half Dollar has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and limited mintage, finding high-grade specimens is extremely challenging. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after by collectors.
The strike quality can vary significantly, with many examples showing weakness in certain areas. Well-struck coins with full detail command a premium. Original luster is rarely seen on these coins, but any remaining luster can significantly increase value. Natural toning is generally considered desirable, especially if it enhances the coin’s overall eye appeal.
Mintage: 29,890
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, with only a handful known in Mint State
Varieties Errors: Overstruck 1801, Overstruck 1800
Market Demand: High, due to its rarity and historical significance
Provenance plays a crucial role in the value of 1802 Half Dollars. Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially those from famous collections, can command substantial premiums.
The overstruck varieties (1801 and 1800) are particularly valuable and sought after by specialists. These varieties provide insight into the minting practices of the early U.S. Mint and are considered important numismatic rarities.
Due to the coin’s rarity, even low-grade examples in Good or Very Good condition are valuable and in demand among collectors trying to complete date sets of early half dollars.
