Price Guide for 1848 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.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $32.50 – $4,600.00Uncirculated: $85.00 – $39,950.00
-
eBayCirculated: $67.06 – $181.28
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,150.00 – $4,200.00Uncirculated: $4,650.00 – $35,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,955.00 – $2,990.00Uncirculated: $46.00 – $17,600.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,550.00 – $4,100.00Uncirculated: $4,650.00 – $25,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,950.00 – $94,875.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $8,500.00 – $67,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $28,600.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,105.00 – $13,200.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,250.00 – $36,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $8,625.00 – $11,500.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,250.00 – $57,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,910.00Uncirculated: $5,760.00 – $16,100.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5,000.00Uncirculated: $7,000.00 – $25,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,960.00 – $14,400.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $18,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7,500.00 – $11,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $20,400.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,485.00
-
eBayCirculated: $85.49
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9,775.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,370.00
Design and Specifications of the 1848 Half Cent
The 1848 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 one of the last decades of half cent production in the United States. The Braided Hair design was a refinement of the earlier Classic Head design, both created by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint.
Half cents were primarily used for making change in an era when Spanish colonial coins were still in circulation. By 1848, the half cent was becoming less necessary in everyday commerce, leading to relatively low mintages in its final years.
| 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 1848 Half Cent significantly impacts its value and desirability among collectors. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade examples is challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) are especially valuable and sought after.
Key factors affecting condition include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
– Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or scratches increase value.
– Color: Original red or red-brown specimens command a premium over fully brown examples.
– Luster: Coins retaining original mint luster are highly prized.
Mintage: 39,864
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Additional factors influencing the 1848 Half Cent’s value include:
1. Historical significance: As one of the last years of half cent production, it holds special interest for collectors.
2. Low mintage: With only 39,864 pieces struck, it’s a scarce date in the series.
3. Survival rate: Many were likely melted or lost, making high-grade survivors especially rare.
4. Collection demand: Essential for type sets and date collectors focusing on half cents or pre-Civil War coinage.
5. Overall eye appeal: Attractive toning or color can significantly enhance value beyond mere technical grade.
