Price Guide for 1844 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: $2,415.00 – $4,888.00Uncirculated: $75.00 – $71,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3,000.00 – $4,250.00Uncirculated: $5,850.00 – $92,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,530.00 – $3,220.00Uncirculated: $40.00 – $10,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,250.00 – $28,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,620.00 – $22,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,000.00 – $32,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $5,463.00 – $102,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $8,000.00 – $18,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,080.00 – $15,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $9,000.00 – $37,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,300.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $28,800.00 – $74,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,800.00 – $36,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22,500.00 – $27,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1844 Half Cent
The 1844 Half Cent was part of the Braided Hair series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1857 when the denomination was discontinued. This coin represents a late period in the half cent’s history, as the denomination was becoming less economically viable due to inflation and changing economic conditions.
Half cents were primarily used for making change in transactions involving Spanish colonial coins, which were still in circulation in the United States at the time. The 1844 issue was produced in relatively low numbers, reflecting the declining demand for this denomination.
| 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 an 1844 Half Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade specimens can be challenging. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable and sought after by collectors.
Original red color is highly prized in copper coins of this era. Specimens retaining a significant amount of original mint luster and red color command substantial premiums. Conversely, environmental damage, cleaning, or heavy circulation wear can significantly decrease the coin’s value.
Mintage: 39,864
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is an important factor for 1844 Half Cents. Well-struck coins with full details, especially in Liberty’s hair and the wreath on the reverse, are more desirable. Even, attractive toning can also enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
As a scarce date in the Braided Hair series, the 1844 Half Cent is popular among type collectors and series specialists alike. Its historical significance as one of the last half cents minted before the denomination’s discontinuation adds to its numismatic interest and value.
