Price Guide for 1808 Half Cent 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: $2.10 – $6,325.00Uncirculated: $2,520.00 – $44,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $17.00 – $2,280.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $5,350.00Uncirculated: $5,750.00 – $47,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.00 – $24,150.00
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eBayCirculated: $32.11 – $1,187.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $90,000.00Uncirculated: $500,000.00 – $550,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $264.00 – $7,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $32.00 – $5,757.50Uncirculated: $3,055.00 – $71,875.00
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eBayCirculated: $89.88 – $637.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $60.00 – $5,750.00Uncirculated: $6,250.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $5,040.00 – $184,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $140,000.00 – $215,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $66.00 – $22,800.00Uncirculated: $483,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $250.00 – $1,236.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $275.00 – $80,000.00Uncirculated: $125,000.00 – $525,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1808 Half Cent
The 1808 Half Cent is part of the Draped Bust series, which was produced from 1800 to 1808. This coin represents the final year of the Draped Bust design for half cents before the introduction of the Classic Head design in 1809.
Half cents were the smallest denomination ever minted by the United States, and they played a crucial role in everyday commerce during the early years of the nation. The 1808 issue is particularly significant as it marks the end of an era in American coinage design.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (All minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust of Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding denomination 'HALF CENT', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1808 Half Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to the age and limited survival rate of these coins, specimens in high grades are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Uncirculated examples with original red or red-brown color are especially valuable. The presence of full original luster and absence of significant contact marks can greatly increase the coin’s desirability and value.
Even in circulated grades, coins with clear design details and attractive, problem-free surfaces command premium prices.
Mintage: 400,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Normal Date and Spiked Chin variety
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a final year issue and overall scarcity
Several factors can influence the value of an 1808 Half Cent:
1. Variety: The ‘Spiked Chin’ variety, where a die defect created a spike-like protrusion on Liberty’s chin, is rarer and more valuable than the normal date variety.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable.
3. Color: Original red or red-brown specimens are highly prized, while unattractive dark brown examples are less valuable.
4. Surface preservation: Coins free from corrosion, significant scratches, or other damage are more valuable.
5. Historical significance: As the final year of the Draped Bust design, this date holds special appeal for collectors of early American coinage.
