Price Guide for 1805 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: $21.75 – $46,000.00Uncirculated: $17,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $600.00 – $2,495.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $85,000.00Uncirculated: $175,000.00 – $850,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $397.00 – $47,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $4,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 – $60,000.00Uncirculated: $100,000.00 – $160,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1805 Half Dime
The 1805 Half Dime is part of the Draped Bust, Small Eagle series, which was produced from 1796 to 1805. This coin represents the final year of the Small Eagle reverse design for half dimes, making it historically significant.
The Draped Bust design was created by artist Gilbert Stuart and engraved by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. This series played a crucial role in the early monetary system of the United States, helping to establish a stable silver coinage.
| Weight | 1.35 grams |
|---|---|
| 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 the 1805 Half Dime has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and low survival rate, even low-grade examples are highly sought after. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are especially valuable.
The strike quality can vary significantly, with many examples showing weakness in the central areas. Coins with strong, full strikes command substantial premiums. Original luster is extremely rare and highly prized by collectors.
Mintage: 15,600
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 its status as a key date and the last year of the Small Eagle reverse
Historical significance plays a major role in the value of the 1805 Half Dime. As the final year of the Small Eagle reverse, it holds special appeal for type set collectors and early American coin enthusiasts.
The overall rarity of the issue, combined with its importance in U.S. numismatic history, ensures strong demand from collectors. Any provenance linking the coin to notable collections or historical figures can significantly increase its value.
Collectors should be cautious of cleaned or altered specimens, as these are common due to the coin’s age and value. Original, problem-free examples with attractive toning are especially desirable and command substantial premiums in the market.
