Price Guide for 1865 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: $138.00 – $1,762.50Uncirculated: $776.00 – $9,987.50
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eBayCirculated: $562.00 – $1,895.00Uncirculated: $915.00 – $1,514.89
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $1,750.00Uncirculated: $1,800.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.10 – $2,280.00Uncirculated: $529.00 – $30,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $75.00 – $986.00Uncirculated: $4,386.09
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,350.00Uncirculated: $1,500.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $431.00 – $460.00Uncirculated: $4.15 – $8,912.00
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eBayUncirculated: $455.00 – $1,599.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $350.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $8,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $211.50Uncirculated: $1,800.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $633.00 – $9,400.00
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eBayUncirculated: $510.17 – $1,593.25
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $800.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,300.00 – $4,935.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $8,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1865 Half Dime
The 1865 Half Dime was minted during the final year of the American Civil War. This coin represents a significant period in American history, as the nation was on the brink of reunification. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1837, continued to grace this small silver coin, symbolizing the enduring nature of American democracy even in times of great national strife.
| 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 denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1865 Half Dime significantly impacts its value. Due to the low mintages and the coin’s age, 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 strong strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks.
For the Philadelphia issue, with its extremely low mintage, even circulated examples in Fine or better condition command strong premiums. The San Francisco issue, while more common, also sees substantial value increases in higher grades.
Mintage: 13,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 120,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: Moderate to High, depending on condition
Several factors can influence the value of an 1865 Half Dime beyond its basic condition:
1. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can significantly enhance the coin’s appeal and value, especially for the scarcer Philadelphia issue.
2. Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with full details, particularly on Liberty’s head and the wreath on the reverse, are more desirable.
3. Die State: Late die state examples showing interesting die cracks or other features may appeal to specialized collectors.
4. Historical Significance: As a Civil War era coin, the 1865 Half Dime holds additional appeal for history enthusiasts and Civil War collectors, potentially increasing its value.
5. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially if linked to notable collections, may command a premium.
