Price Guide for 1855 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: $39.00 – $719.00Uncirculated: $106.00 – $6,300.00
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eBayCirculated: $11.16 – $366.00Uncirculated: $37.00 – $2,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $415.00Uncirculated: $450.00 – $8,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $299.00 – $2,800.00Uncirculated: $431.00 – $14,687.50
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eBayUncirculated: $810.00 – $2,280.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $475.00 – $18,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,725.00Uncirculated: $32.50 – $6,900.00
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eBayUncirculated: $4,099.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,650.00 – $30,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $161.00Uncirculated: $1.50 – $4,560.00
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eBayUncirculated: $316.00 – $2,280.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $460.00 – $9,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $74.00 – $246.75Uncirculated: $142.00 – $5,520.00
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eBayUncirculated: $270.00 – $1,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $415.00Uncirculated: $450.00 – $2,650.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $446.50 – $2,280.00
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eBayUncirculated: $385.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $460.00 – $2,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $480.00 – $22,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $500.00 – $23,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2,600.00 – $12,000.00Uncirculated: $2,990.00 – $13,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $9,000.00 – $20,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,613.00 – $7,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $12,750.00 – $28,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,295.88 – $3,720.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,850.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $5,040.00 – $12,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,250.00 – $18,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1855 Half Cent
The 1855 Half Cent represents the final year of regular production for this denomination, marking the end of an era in American coinage. The Half Cent, first minted in 1793, was the smallest denomination ever produced by the United States Mint. Its discontinuation was largely due to rising copper prices and diminishing utility in everyday commerce.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23 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
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1855 Half Cents. Due to their low mintage and historical significance, well-preserved specimens are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting full original luster and minimal contact marks.
Toning can significantly impact desirability, with attractive, natural red-brown or red coloration being highly prized. Conversely, environmental damage, such as corrosion or cleaning, can severely diminish value.
Mintage: 56,500
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and low mintage
As the final year of regular production, the 1855 Half Cent holds special numismatic interest. This factor, combined with its low mintage, makes it a key date in the series.
Proofs of this year are extremely rare, with only a handful known to exist. These proof specimens command significant premiums and are highly sought after by advanced collectors.
The historical context of the coin, representing the end of the Half Cent denomination, adds to its appeal and value among numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.
