Price Guide for 1801 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: $12.75 – $58,750.00Uncirculated: $13,800.00 – $329,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $531.51 – $7,035.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $67,500.00Uncirculated: $100,000.00 – $450,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $253.00 – $61,687.50Uncirculated: $55,812.50
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eBayCirculated: $1,000.00 – $6,518.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,000.00 – $67,500.00Uncirculated: $100,000.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $840.00 – $36,000.00Uncirculated: $420,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,500.00 – $1,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $67,500.00Uncirculated: $100,000.00 – $200,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1801 Half Dollar
The 1801 Half Dollar is part of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was minted from 1796 to 1801. This coin represents the final year of the Small Eagle reverse design for half dollars. In 1801, the United States was still a young nation, with Thomas Jefferson serving as the third President. The half dollar played a crucial role in commerce during this period, as it represented a significant amount of purchasing power.
| Weight | 13.48 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia Mint 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, featuring an eagle with a shield on its breast, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1801 Half Dollar’s value. Due to its age and limited survival rate, even low-grade examples command significant premiums. Coins in VF (Very Fine) condition or better are highly desirable and valuable.
The presence of original luster and absence of major marks or scratches can dramatically increase value. Attractive natural toning is also highly prized by collectors and can enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 30,289
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS60 and above, with only a handful known to exist
Varieties Errors: Overpunched dates (1801/0) are known and highly sought after
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a key date and the last year of the Small Eagle reverse
Die varieties play a significant role in the 1801 Half Dollar’s value. The 1801/0 overdate variety is particularly rare and valuable, often commanding a substantial premium over the regular issue.
Provenance can also impact value. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or inclusion in famous collections can be worth significantly more.
The historical significance of this coin as the last year of the Small Eagle reverse design adds to its desirability among type set collectors and early American coin enthusiasts.
