Price Guide for 1840 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 PriceUncirculated: $85.00 – $33,350.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,250.00 – $4,750.00Uncirculated: $5,750.00 – $47,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,680.00 – $18,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,650.00 – $28,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,080.00 – $15,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,750.00 – $42,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,383.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $9,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $46.00 – $48,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $9,000.00 – $37,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $11,400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $10,350.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $27,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9,000.00 – $26,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $10,000.00 – $17,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1840 Half Cent
The 1840 Half Cent is part of the Braided Hair series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1857 when the denomination was discontinued. This coin represents the first year of issue for the new design, replacing the Classic Head design. The Braided Hair design was created by Christian Gobrecht, the chief engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time, and it features a more refined and artistic representation of Liberty.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (Braided Hair), designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding 'HALF CENT', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1840 Half Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage and status as the first year of issue for the Braided Hair design, well-preserved specimens are highly prized by collectors. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting strong strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks.
Proof specimens are extremely rare and valuable in all grades, with those in PR65 or higher commanding exceptional premiums. The original red color of the copper is highly desirable, and coins retaining this color will typically be worth more than those that have toned to brown.
Mintage: 24,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: Estimated 20-30
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in all grades, especially PR65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Very High, highly sought after by advanced collectors
Several factors can influence the value of an 1840 Half Cent:
1. First Year of Issue: As the inaugural year for the Braided Hair design, this date holds special appeal for collectors.
2. Low Mintage: With only 24,000 pieces struck for circulation, this is one of the lowest mintage dates in the series.
3. Proof Rarity: Proof specimens are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by advanced collectors.
4. Die State: Early die state examples with sharp details can command a premium.
5. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value, especially if it complements the coin’s original surfaces.
6. Historical Significance: As a pre-Civil War issue, this coin holds additional appeal for history enthusiasts.
