Price Guide for 1796 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: $280.00 – $211,500.00Uncirculated: $115,250.00 – $822,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $325,000.00Uncirculated: $350,000.00 – $2,000,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $135.00 – $214,000.00Uncirculated: $575.00 – $373,750.00
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eBayUncirculated: $227.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $300,000.00Uncirculated: $325,000.00 – $650,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $17,250.00 – $258,500.00Uncirculated: $282,000.00 – $312,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $300,000.00Uncirculated: $325,000.00 – $650,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $21,600.00 – $88,125.00Uncirculated: $329,000.00 – $1,800,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $325,000.00Uncirculated: $350,000.00 – $2,000,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1796 Half Dollar
The 1796 Half Dollar is a highly significant and rare coin in American numismatics. It represents the first year of issue for the Draped Bust, Small Eagle design, which was only produced for two years (1796-1797). This coin was minted during the early years of the United States Mint, when coin production was still relatively low and inconsistent.
The Draped Bust design, created by artist Gilbert Stuart and executed by Chief Engraver Robert Scot, was a significant improvement over the previous Flowing Hair design. The 1796 Half Dollar holds a special place in history as one of the earliest silver denominations produced by the United States Mint.
| Weight | 13.48 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint marks (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design featuring Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Small Eagle design with a heraldic eagle, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1796 Half Dollar has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and limited mintage, most surviving examples show significant wear. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after and command substantial premiums.
Strike quality is particularly important for this issue, as many examples were weakly struck. Well-struck coins with full details are especially desirable. Original surfaces and natural toning are highly valued by collectors, as they indicate the coin has not been cleaned or altered.
The presence of adjustment marks (file marks made at the mint to ensure correct weight) is common and generally does not detract from the value unless they significantly impact the design.
Mintage: 3,918
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in high grades (XF or better). Mint State examples are exceptionally rare and valuable.
Varieties Errors: 15 Stars and 16 Stars varieties
Market Demand: High, due to its historical significance and extreme rarity
Several factors can significantly affect the value of a 1796 Half Dollar:
1. Variety: Two major varieties exist – the 15 Stars and 16 Stars obverse. The 16 Stars variety is rarer and typically commands a higher premium.
2. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially those from famous collections, can be more valuable.
3. Original mint luster: Any remaining luster can greatly enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
4. Strike quality: Well-struck examples with full design details are more desirable.
5. Lack of problems: Coins free from cleaning, damage, or other issues are highly prized in this series.
Given its extreme rarity and historical significance, the 1796 Half Dollar is considered a true numismatic treasure, with even low-grade examples commanding high prices in the market.
