Price Guide for 1841 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: $1.50 – $427.00Uncirculated: $2.00 – $7,475.00
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eBayCirculated: $24.50 – $337.00Uncirculated: $376.00 – $2,280.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $0.35 – $3,407.50Uncirculated: $5.50 – $31,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $32.00 – $1,110.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $75.00 – $1,250.00Uncirculated: $1,500.00 – $35,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,155.00 – $36,290.00Uncirculated: $3,105.00 – $46,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22,500.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $30,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1841 Half Dime
The 1841 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This design, created by Christian Gobrecht, represented a significant shift from the earlier Capped Bust design. The Seated Liberty motif was used on several denominations, symbolizing the growing nation’s ideals of liberty and freedom.
1841 was a notable year as it saw production of Half Dimes at both the Philadelphia and New Orleans mints, providing collectors with two distinct varieties to pursue.
| Weight | 1.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1841 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Circulation strikes from both mints are scarce in high grades, with New Orleans coins being particularly challenging to find in Mint State.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are highly prized.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds considerable value.
3. Surface preservation: Coins free from significant marks or scratches command premiums.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance desirability among collectors.
Mintage: 1,150,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 815,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Additional factors influencing the value of 1841 Half Dimes include:
1. Mint mark: The New Orleans (O) mint mark generally commands a premium due to lower mintage and survival rate.
2. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting characteristics may appeal to specialists.
3. Provenance: Coins with a notable ownership history can fetch higher prices.
4. Overall eye appeal: Subjective factors like overall attractiveness can significantly impact value.
Collectors should be aware that counterfeits exist, particularly of the scarcer New Orleans mint coins. Authentication is recommended for high-value specimens.
