Price Guide for 1849 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 – $576.00Uncirculated: $2.00 – $8,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $25.00 – $295.00Uncirculated: $1,050.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $375.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $18,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.10 – $2,640.00Uncirculated: $1,527.50 – $19,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $75.00 – $1,795.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $3,000.00Uncirculated: $3,250.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3.25 – $690.00Uncirculated: $380.00 – $16,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $162.50 – $475.00Uncirculated: $999.95 – $2,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $75.00 – $900.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $50.00 – $840.00Uncirculated: $276.00 – $5,040.00
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eBayCirculated: $145.00 – $604.99Uncirculated: $1,025.00 – $3,995.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $75.00 – $1,025.00Uncirculated: $1,100.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $13.00 – $52,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22,500.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $158.63 – $660.00Uncirculated: $336.00 – $9,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $59.20
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $38,187.50 – $48,875.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $75,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1849 Half Dime
The 1849 Half Dime was part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This year was significant as it marked the height of the California Gold Rush, which had a profound impact on the American economy and coinage. The influx of gold led to changes in the relative values of gold and silver, ultimately affecting the production and circulation of silver coins like the Half Dime.
| 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 1849 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are particularly desirable due to their scarcity. The New Orleans mint coins are especially valuable in high grades due to their lower mintage and generally poorer strike quality.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant premium.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer marks and scratches increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value.
Mintage: 1,309,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular among type set collectors
Mintage: 140,000
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 specimens
Additional factors influencing the value of 1849 Half Dimes include:
1. Mint mark: New Orleans coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Historical significance: Connection to the California Gold Rush era adds interest.
3. Type set demand: As part of the Seated Liberty series, these coins are popular among type set collectors.
4. Overall rarity: While not as rare as some years, 1849 Half Dimes are still scarce compared to later dates.
5. Die varieties: While no major varieties are known, minor die variations can add value for specialists.
