Price Guide for 1803 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: $3.40 – $17,825.00Uncirculated: $8,800.00 – $186,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $177.50 – $4,076.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $375.00 – $15,000.00Uncirculated: $27,500.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $12.00 – $17,625.00Uncirculated: $6,325.00 – $195,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $449.99 – $3,222.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $27,500.00Uncirculated: $37,500.00 – $250,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $240.00 – $7,050.00Uncirculated: $18,000.00 – $85,187.50
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eBayCirculated: $192.50 – $12,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $375.00 – $15,000.00Uncirculated: $27,500.00 – $225,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $204.00 – $955.00
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eBayCirculated: $224.73 – $1,475.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $2,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $216.00 – $4,465.00
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eBayCirculated: $250.07 – $1,945.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $375.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $153.00 – $14,400.00Uncirculated: $70,000.00 – $88,125.00
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eBayCirculated: $306.00 – $2,920.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $375.00 – $15,000.00Uncirculated: $27,500.00 – $110,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $432.00 – $25,850.00Uncirculated: $26,400.00 – $35,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $408.00 – $1,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $400.00 – $27,500.00Uncirculated: $37,500.00 – $250,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1803 Half Dollar
The 1803 Half Dollar is part of the Draped Bust series, which was produced from 1796 to 1807. This coin represents an important period in early American coinage, as the young nation was establishing its monetary system. The Draped Bust design was a refinement of the earlier Flowing Hair design, aiming to create a more dignified representation of Liberty.
The year 1803 saw a significant increase in half dollar production compared to previous years, reflecting the growing demand for this denomination in commerce.
| Weight | 13.48 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint marks used (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design, featuring Liberty facing right with flowing hair, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle design, featuring an eagle with shield and arrows in talons, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1803 Half Dollar has a significant impact on its value. Due to its age and extensive circulation, high-grade examples are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are exceptionally valuable, with prices increasing dramatically for grades MS63 and above.
The presence of original luster and absence of major contact marks or wear on high points (such as Liberty’s cheek and hair) are crucial factors in determining grade and value. Attractive, natural toning can also enhance desirability among collectors.
Mintage: 188,234
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Large 3, Small 3, and Overdate 1803/2 varieties
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and scarcity
Several factors can significantly affect the value of an 1803 Half Dollar:
1. Variety: The Large 3, Small 3, and Overdate 1803/2 varieties can command different premiums, with the Overdate typically being the most valuable.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck examples with full details, especially on the eagle’s feathers and stars, are more desirable.
3. Die state: Early die state examples with sharp details are generally more valuable than later die state coins with weaker strikes.
4. Originality: Coins with original surfaces, free from cleaning or other alterations, are highly prized by collectors.
5. Provenance: A documented history of ownership, especially if connected to notable collections, can increase value.
