Price Guide for 1843 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: $1.05 – $408.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $6,900.00
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eBayCirculated: $23.88 – $350.00Uncirculated: $220.27 – $1,359.75
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $7,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $13.00 – $69,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22,500.00 – $85,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $153.00 – $264.00
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eBayCirculated: $145.00 – $677.98
Design and Specifications of the 1843 Half Dime
The 1843 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the expansion of the United States and the growing need for smaller denominations in commerce.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the nation’s stability and strength. This year saw production at both the Philadelphia and New Orleans mints, reflecting the increasing demand for coinage in the southern and western regions of the country.
| 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 the denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1843 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Due to their small size and extensive circulation, many specimens show considerable wear. Well-preserved examples, particularly those in Mint State grades, are highly sought after by collectors.
Coins with strong strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks command premium prices. The presence of original toning can also enhance desirability, especially if it’s attractive and even across the coin’s surface.
Mintage: 1,165,000
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: 2,268,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for high-grade examples
Mint mark rarity plays a role in valuation, with the New Orleans mint coins generally being slightly more valuable in lower grades due to their often poorer striking quality. However, in higher grades, the Philadelphia issues can command higher premiums due to their lower survival rates in pristine condition.
Collectors also value eye appeal, which includes factors like strike quality, luster, and overall visual attractiveness. Any die varieties or errors, while not commonly noted for this year, could significantly increase a coin’s value if discovered. The historical significance of the Seated Liberty design and its connection to the pre-Civil War era also adds to the coin’s appeal among collectors and historians.
