Price Guide for 1834 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: $17.00 – $633.00Uncirculated: $2.00 – $33,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $21.25 – $599.95Uncirculated: $416.00 – $3,902.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $600.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $253.00 – $1,645.00Uncirculated: $431.00 – $45,825.00
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eBayCirculated: $122.50Uncirculated: $777.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,430.00 – $1,650.00Uncirculated: $5.25 – $50,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $13,500.00 – $80,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $57.00 – $456.00Uncirculated: $360.00 – $7,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $99.99 – $388.50Uncirculated: $835.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $90.00 – $719.00Uncirculated: $223.25 – $11,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $184.00 – $239.96
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $133.20Uncirculated: $750.00 – $1,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $382.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $37.00 – $480.00Uncirculated: $1,351.25 – $3,877.50
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eBayCirculated: $100.00Uncirculated: $695.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $35,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $105.75 – $881.25
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eBayCirculated: $91.00 – $189.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $8,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1834 Half Dime
The 1834 Half Dime is part of the Capped Bust series, which was minted from 1829 to 1837. This coin represents a significant period in early American coinage, as it was produced during the presidency of Andrew Jackson. The Capped Bust design, created by John Reich, was a departure from the earlier Flowing Hair and Draped Bust designs, reflecting the evolving artistic tastes of the young nation.
Half Dimes were an essential part of everyday commerce in the 1830s, representing 1/20 of a dollar in value. The 1834 issue is particularly noteworthy as it was minted during a time of economic change, just before the Coinage Act of 1834 which would adjust the silver-to-gold ratio and impact the production of silver coins.
| Weight | 1.35 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Capped Bust, designed by John Reich |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by John Reich |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1834 Half Dime has a significant impact on its value. As with most early American coins, finding high-grade examples can be challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting strong strikes and minimal contact marks.
The presence of original luster is highly prized by collectors, as is attractive, natural toning. Coins with sharp details, especially on the eagle’s feathers and Liberty’s hair, command higher prices. Conversely, examples with weak strikes or excessive wear are less desirable but still collectible due to their historical significance.
Mintage: 1,480,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with high demand for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is a crucial factor for the 1834 Half Dime. Well-struck coins with full details on both obverse and reverse are highly sought after. The centering of the design can also affect value, with perfectly centered strikes being more desirable.
While not typically prone to major varieties or errors, any die cracks or cuds can add interest and value for specialized collectors. The overall eye appeal of the coin, including factors like toning and surface preservation, can significantly influence its market value among discerning collectors of early American silver coinage.
