Price Guide for 1795 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: $5.65 – $12,650.00Uncirculated: $13.00 – $176,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $400.00 – $6,250.00Uncirculated: $8,250.00 – $23,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $11,500.00Uncirculated: $12,000.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $376.00 – $8,775.00Uncirculated: $7,050.00 – $161,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $11,500.00Uncirculated: $12,000.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,400.00 – $34,075.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20,000.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,080.00 – $9,987.50Uncirculated: $1,645.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $748.00 – $11,750.00Uncirculated: $11,401.20 – $18,800.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $881.25 – $8,225.00Uncirculated: $18,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,500.00 – $12,500.00Uncirculated: $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $780.00 – $11,500.00Uncirculated: $6,462.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5,000.00 – $9,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,820.00 – $4,935.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6,500.00 – $8,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,560.00 – $6,900.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $514.65 – $12,650.00Uncirculated: $3,680.00 – $152,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $512.30
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $11,500.00Uncirculated: $12,000.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,265.00 – $2,760.00Uncirculated: $76,375.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000.00 – $11,000.00Uncirculated: $12,000.00 – $95,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1795 Half Dime
The 1795 Half Dime, also known as the Flowing Hair Half Dime, was one of the first silver coins minted by the newly established United States Mint. It represents a crucial piece of early American numismatic history. This coin was part of the initial set of denominations authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, showcasing the young nation’s commitment to establishing its own monetary system.
The Flowing Hair design, used for only two years (1794-1795), was the first official design for U.S. silver coinage. Its short-lived nature and historical significance make it highly sought after by collectors and historians alike.
| Weight | 1.35 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 16.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Flowing Hair Liberty, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small Eagle, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1795 Half Dimes dramatically impacts their value. Due to their age and the primitive minting techniques of the time, most surviving specimens show significant wear. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are considered quite scarce and command substantial premiums.
Strike quality varies considerably for this issue, with many coins showing weakness in certain areas, particularly on the eagle’s breast and wings. Well-struck examples with full details are highly prized. Original luster is extremely rare on these early coins, and its presence can significantly increase value.
Natural toning, especially if attractive and colorful, can enhance desirability among collectors. However, any signs of cleaning or environmental damage can severely impact value.
Mintage: 78,600
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, with only a handful known in Mint State
Varieties Errors: LM-8 (Logan-McCloskey) variety with recut date
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and scarcity
Variety collecting is an important aspect of 1795 Half Dimes. The Logan-McCloskey reference identifies several die varieties for this year, with some being rarer and more valuable than others. The LM-8 variety with a recut date is particularly sought after.
The historical significance of these coins as part of the first years of U.S. coinage adds to their value beyond mere rarity. Their connection to the founding era of the United States makes them highly desirable to both numismatists and American history enthusiasts.
Provenance can also play a role in value. Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially if linked to notable collections or historical figures, can command significant premiums.
