Price Guide for 1855 Half Dime 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: $21.00 – $575.00Uncirculated: $0.75 – $44,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $39.99 – $280.65Uncirculated: $76.00 – $1,341.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $45,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.50 – $1,293.00Uncirculated: $2.50 – $48,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $29.00 – $405.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1,200.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $13.00 – $26,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,000.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,100.00 – $21,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $17,500.00 – $50,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1855 Half Dime
The 1855 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This year is notable as it falls within the period of the California Gold Rush, which had a significant impact on the American economy and coinage. The Half Dime, being a small silver coin, played an important role in everyday commerce during this time.
| Weight | 1.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves surrounding the words 'HALF DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1855 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Uncirculated specimens are particularly desirable, with MS65 and above commanding substantial premiums. For the New Orleans mint, even AU (About Uncirculated) examples are highly sought after.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster is highly prized.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer marks and abrasions increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value.
Mintage: 1,750,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular among type set collectors
Mintage: 600,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mint mark rarity: The New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage and survival rates.
Historical significance: As a coin minted during the California Gold Rush era, it holds additional appeal for collectors interested in this period of American history.
Type set demand: Being part of the Seated Liberty series, these coins are in demand for type set collections, which can drive up prices for high-grade examples.
