Price Guide for 1801 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: $25.75 – $24,000.00Uncirculated: $6,270.00 – $144,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $559.30 – $8,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,000.00 – $17,500.00Uncirculated: $22,500.00 – $175,000.00

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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,093.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $7,500.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $504.00 – $18,600.00Uncirculated: $12,925.00 – $164,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $850.00 – $17,500.00Uncirculated: $22,500.00 – $175,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1801 Half Dime
The 1801 Half Dime is a rare and significant coin in early American numismatics. It belongs to the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was produced from 1796 to 1805. This coin represents one of the earliest silver denominations minted by the United States and was vital for everyday commerce in the young nation.
The year 1801 saw very limited production of half dimes, making it a key date in the series. The Draped Bust design, created by Robert Scot, was inspired by a drawing of Mrs. Ann Willing Bingham, a prominent Philadelphia socialite, by the artist Gilbert Stuart.
Weight | 1.35 grams |
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Diameter | 16.5 mm |
Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
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 an eagle perched on a cloud, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1801 Half Dime has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and limited survival rate, even low-grade examples are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are exceptionally rare and command significant premiums.
Strike quality is often weak on these early coins, so well-struck examples with full details are particularly desirable. Original luster is rarely encountered but highly prized when present. Natural toning can add to the appeal and value, especially if it’s attractive and even across the surface.
Mintage: 27,760 (estimated)
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: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, due to rarity and historical significance
Historical significance plays a major role in the value of 1801 Half Dimes. As one of the earliest silver coins minted by the United States, it holds great appeal for collectors of early American coinage.
The extreme rarity of high-grade specimens makes them valuable numismatic treasures. Any example with a clear date and identifiable design elements is desirable.
Provenance can significantly impact value, especially if the coin can be traced to a famous collection or has been featured in important auctions. Additionally, certification by reputable grading services can provide assurance of authenticity and condition, potentially increasing the coin’s marketability and value.