Price Guide for 1854 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: $11.00 – $506.00Uncirculated: $1.75 – $20,700.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.55 – $299.99Uncirculated: $83.00 – $1,599.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $18,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.60 – $440.63Uncirculated: $196.00 – $32,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $15.50 – $199.99Uncirculated: $289.08 – $1,599.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $21,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,050.00Uncirculated: $4,250.00 – $38,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $30.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,500.00 – $27,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1854 Half Dime
The 1854 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1837 to 1873. This year is significant as it marks the last year of the ‘No Arrows’ variety before the weight reduction in 1853. The Half Dime played a crucial role in everyday commerce during this period, being the smallest silver denomination in circulation.
| Weight | 1.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves surrounding the words 'HALF DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1854 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Due to their small size and extensive circulation, finding high-grade examples can be challenging. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are particularly valuable, with premiums for those exhibiting strong strikes and minimal contact marks.
The New Orleans mint coins are generally more valuable in higher grades due to their lower mintage and typically weaker strikes. Coins with original luster and attractive toning can command significant premiums.
Mintage: 5,740,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 1,560,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Strike quality is a crucial factor for 1854 Half Dimes. Well-struck examples with full details on Liberty’s head and hand, as well as sharp details on the wreath, are highly desirable. Die state can also affect value, with early die state coins often commanding premiums due to their sharper details.
For the New Orleans mint coins, the strength of the mint mark can impact value, with bold, clear mint marks being more desirable. Collectors also prize examples with original surfaces and natural toning, particularly those exhibiting attractive rainbow colors.
