Price Guide for 1883 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: $161.00 – $1,880.00Uncirculated: $460.00 – $49,450.00
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eBayCirculated: $530.00 – $1,450.00Uncirculated: $1,656.22 – $3,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $1,650.00Uncirculated: $1,700.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $382.00 – $7,344.00Uncirculated: $4.25 – $23,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $620.00 – $9,565.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 – $850.00Uncirculated: $900.00 – $40,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,740.00 – $3,760.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $384.00 – $720.00Uncirculated: $1,116.25 – $7,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $693.20
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $1,650.00Uncirculated: $1,700.00 – $60,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $881.25 – $2,200.00Uncirculated: $575.00 – $29,375.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,039.87 – $10,550.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,100.00 – $50,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,994.00Uncirculated: $1,880.00 – $28,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $35,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1883 Half Dollar
The 1883 Half Dollar is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was produced from 1839 to 1891. This design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a significant departure from earlier coin designs and became one of the longest-running coin designs in U.S. history. 1883 was a notable year as it saw the introduction of the new Liberty Head nickel, which caused some controversy due to its similarity to the five-dollar gold piece.
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (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 an 1883 Half Dollar significantly impacts its value. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are highly sought after and command substantial premiums. The Philadelphia issue, with its low mintage, is particularly valuable in high 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 value.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer contact marks and scratches increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
Mintage: 8,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
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: 1,200,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved examples
Mintage: 1,340,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant noted
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved examples
Rarity and historical significance play crucial roles in determining the value of 1883 Half Dollars. The Philadelphia mintage is particularly valuable due to its low production numbers.
Other factors influencing value include:
1. Mint mark: Philadelphia coins (no mint mark) are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting characteristics may command a premium.
3. Provenance: Coins with a notable ownership history can be more valuable.
4. Overall eye appeal: Subjective factors like attractiveness can significantly impact value among collectors.
