Price Guide for 1869 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: $74.00 – $499.00Uncirculated: $132.00 – $16,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $65.00 – $356.51Uncirculated: $134.97 – $956.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $350.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $20,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3.00 – $489.00Uncirculated: $173.00 – $10,350.00
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eBayCirculated: $16.41 – $1,000.00Uncirculated: $399.50 – $1,599.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $600.00 – $12,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $230.00 – $299.00Uncirculated: $1.80 – $10,580.00
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eBayUncirculated: $335.00 – $2,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $350.00Uncirculated: $400.00 – $7,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $668.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $460.00 – $9,200.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,524.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $700.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,997.50 – $14,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $35,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1869 Half Dime
The 1869 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was produced from 1837 to 1873. This coin represents one of the last few years of half dime production before it was discontinued in favor of the five-cent nickel. The year 1869 is notable for the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, marking a significant milestone in American history.
| Weight | 1.24 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1869 Half Dime’s value. Well-preserved specimens with minimal wear and good eye appeal command significant premiums. Coins in Mint State grades are especially valuable due to their scarcity.
Strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas. Strong, fully struck examples are highly desirable. Original luster is a key factor, with coins retaining their original mint luster being particularly valuable. Attractive, natural toning can also enhance a coin’s desirability and value.
Mintage: 208,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 230,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for high-grade examples
The 1869 Half Dime is considered scarce for both mint locations, making it a key date for the series. San Francisco issues are generally rarer in high grades due to more extensive circulation.
Die varieties, while not common, can add value for specialists. Collectors should be aware of potential counterfeit coins, especially for high-grade examples, given the coin’s rarity and value.
The historical significance of 1869, particularly the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, adds to the coin’s appeal for collectors interested in American history, potentially increasing demand and value.
