Price Guide for 1845 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: $74.25 – $35,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $14.50 – $118.15
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $16,000.00 – $42,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $40.00 – $21,150.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,550.00 – $4,100.00Uncirculated: $4,650.00 – $47,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,990.00 – $45,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $17,000.00 – $67,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10,500.00Uncirculated: $4,180.00 – $12,075.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,250.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $15,275.00 – $21,275.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7,200.00 – $16,675.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,400.00
Design and Specifications of the 1845 Half Cent
The 1845 Half Cent was part of the Braided Hair series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1857 when half cent production ceased. This coin represents a late stage in the half cent’s history, as it was becoming less economically viable due to rising copper prices and decreasing demand for such a small denomination.
Half cents were primarily used for making change in transactions involving Spanish colonial coins, which were still in circulation at the time. The 1845 issue was produced in relatively low numbers, reflecting the coin’s declining importance in everyday commerce.
| 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 1845 Half Cent significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade examples can be challenging.
Uncirculated specimens are particularly valuable, with those grading MS65 or higher commanding substantial premiums. Coins with original red color are especially prized, as many have toned to brown over time.
Even in circulated grades, well-preserved examples with clear design details and minimal wear are sought after by collectors focusing on this series.
Mintage: 139,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above, with few surviving in pristine condition
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate to High, particularly for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is an important factor for 1845 Half Cents. Well-struck coins with full detail in Liberty’s hair and the wreath on the reverse are more desirable.
Original surfaces free from cleaning or other alterations are highly valued. Coins with attractive, natural toning can command premiums, especially if the toning is even and appealing.
The historical significance of the Half Cent as one of America’s earliest denominations adds to its appeal, making the 1845 issue interesting to both type collectors and series specialists.
