Price Guide for 1878 Half Dollar 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: $16.00 – $1,955.00Uncirculated: $240.00 – $38,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $42.00 – $635.00Uncirculated: $420.00 – $3,706.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $55.00 – $675.00Uncirculated: $700.00 – $45,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $121.00 – $86,250.00Uncirculated: $24,200.00 – $199,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $135,000.00Uncirculated: $140,000.00 – $400,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $288.00 – $3,290.00Uncirculated: $3.25 – $35,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $491.50 – $540.00Uncirculated: $713.00 – $2,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 – $850.00Uncirculated: $900.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $231.00 – $11,280.00Uncirculated: $26.00 – $77,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $315.00 – $7,950.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $16,000.00Uncirculated: $17,500.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $180.00 – $1,410.00Uncirculated: $1,560.00 – $8,225.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,088.40 – $28,800.00Uncirculated: $14,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $16,000.00Uncirculated: $17,500.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $24,000.00 – $82,250.00Uncirculated: $288,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $22,500.00 – $130,000.00Uncirculated: $135,000.00 – $350,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,087.00 – $6,900.00Uncirculated: $630.00 – $42,300.00
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eBayUncirculated: $721.00 – $4,006.66
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,100.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,070.00 – $5,170.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $10,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1878 Half Dollar
The 1878 Half Dollar is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was produced from 1839 to 1891. This year is significant as it marks the last year of regular production for the Seated Liberty Half Dollar before the introduction of the Barber design in 1892. The coin features Liberty seated on a rock on the obverse and an eagle with a shield on the reverse.
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | CC, S |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1878 Half Dollars has a significant impact on their value. Due to their age and limited mintage, high-grade specimens are extremely rare and valuable. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are particularly sought after, with those grading MS65 or higher commanding substantial premiums.
Original mint luster and absence of wear on high points like Liberty’s knee and the eagle’s wings are crucial factors. Attractive, natural toning can also enhance the coin’s desirability and value among collectors.
Mintage: 62,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 12,000
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Very High, due to rarity and historical significance
Mintmark rarity plays a crucial role in the value of 1878 Half Dollars. The San Francisco (S) mint coins are particularly valuable due to their extremely low mintage of just 12,000. Carson City (CC) issues are also highly prized for their low mintage and historical significance.
The historical context of 1878, being the last year of regular production for Seated Liberty Half Dollars, adds to the coin’s appeal. Strike quality can vary, with well-struck examples commanding higher premiums. Collectors also value originality and eye appeal, with problem-free coins in original, uncleaned condition being most desirable.
