Price Guide for 1861 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: $13.00 – $2,415.00Uncirculated: $1.00 – $10,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $17.50 – $255.00Uncirculated: $145.50 – $1,099.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $250.00Uncirculated: $275.00 – $12,750.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $99.00 – $475.00Uncirculated: $204.00 – $15,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $76.00 – $465.00Uncirculated: $550.00 – $2,149.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $650.00Uncirculated: $700.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $299.00Uncirculated: $4.10 – $6,756.25
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eBayUncirculated: $419.00 – $879.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $350.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $169.00Uncirculated: $544.00 – $3,760.00
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eBayCirculated: $110.00 – $410.00Uncirculated: $695.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $650.00Uncirculated: $675.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $327.00 – $4,888.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,750.00 – $5,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1861 Half Dime
The 1861 Half Dime was minted during the first year of the American Civil War. This crucial historical context adds significance to the coin. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1837, continued to be produced during this tumultuous period in American history.
Half Dimes were important for daily commerce, representing a significant portion of a worker’s daily wage at the time. The coin’s production during the Civil War underscores the government’s efforts to maintain economic stability amid national crisis.
| Weight | 1.24 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | P (Philadelphia), S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'HALF DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1861 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Circulated examples are relatively common, but uncirculated specimens, particularly those in grades MS65 and above, are scarce and highly sought after. The San Francisco mint coins, due to their lower mintage, are generally more valuable across all grades.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant premium, especially on uncirculated coins.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer contact marks and scratches increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value.
Mintage: 3,361,000
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: 352,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Historical significance plays a role in the value of 1861 Half Dimes. As Civil War era coins, they hold special interest for collectors of American history. The San Francisco mint coins, being scarcer, generally command higher premiums.
Die state and striking characteristics can also affect value. Coins with sharp, well-defined details are more desirable. For the highest-grade specimens, eye appeal becomes a crucial factor, with coins possessing exceptional luster and attractive toning often commanding significant premiums.
Lastly, provenance can add value. Coins with a documented history of belonging to notable collections or appearing in important auctions may be more valuable to certain collectors.
