Price Guide for 1862 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: $64.00 – $2,280.00Uncirculated: $92.00 – $28,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $59.00 – $950.00Uncirculated: $4,770.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $60.00 – $1,400.00Uncirculated: $1,500.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.00 – $2,880.00Uncirculated: $17.50 – $47,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $27.02 – $1,450.00Uncirculated: $811.09
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,600.00Uncirculated: $1,750.00 – $55,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $345.00 – $4,600.00Uncirculated: $4.80 – $19,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $600.00Uncirculated: $564.00 – $4,957.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $600.00 – $900.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $432.00 – $822.50Uncirculated: $2,280.00
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eBayCirculated: $625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $774.00 – $1,028.13Uncirculated: $1,920.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $264.00 – $384.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $288.00 – $312.00
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eBayCirculated: $58.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $960.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $240.00 – $900.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,000.00 – $3,819.00Uncirculated: $1,150.00 – $35,250.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3,199.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $35,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $23,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1862 Half Dollar
The 1862 Half Dollar was minted during the American Civil War, a time of great economic uncertainty. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, had been in use since 1839. This coin played a crucial role in commerce during a period when many citizens were hoarding silver and gold coins due to the ongoing conflict.
| Weight | 12.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1862 Half Dollar’s value. High-grade specimens, particularly those in Mint State, are highly sought after and command significant premiums. Luster retention is a key factor, with coins displaying full, original mint luster being especially desirable.
For circulated coins, even wear and lack of major marks or scratches are important. Strike quality can vary, with well-struck examples fetching higher prices. Natural toning, if present, can enhance appeal and value, especially if it’s attractive and even across the coin’s surface.
Mintage: 253,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 1,352,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate to High, depending on condition
The historical significance of the 1862 Half Dollar as a Civil War era coin adds to its numismatic value. Collectors often seek these coins as tangible links to this pivotal period in American history.
Provenance can play a role in value, with coins from well-known collections or with a documented history potentially commanding premiums. Additionally, original mint luster and eye appeal are crucial factors that can significantly impact a coin’s desirability and price, especially for higher-grade specimens.
