Price Guide for 1905 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: $2.50 – $9,750.00Uncirculated: $381.88 – $132,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $29.99 – $1,058.00Uncirculated: $240.00 – $3,732.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $27.00 – $800.00Uncirculated: $900.00 – $155,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $21.00 – $1,410.00Uncirculated: $8.25 – $32,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $14.50 – $1,662.00Uncirculated: $360.16 – $15,615.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $27.00 – $950.00Uncirculated: $1,000.00 – $65,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $35.00 – $3,200.00Uncirculated: $8.25 – $64,625.00
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eBayCirculated: $21.50 – $1,380.99Uncirculated: $1,349.99 – $2,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $27.00 – $1,625.00Uncirculated: $1,675.00 – $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $299.00 – $6,500.00Uncirculated: $3.65 – $24,675.00
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eBayCirculated: $446.20Uncirculated: $555.00 – $8,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $575.00Uncirculated: $665.00 – $27,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,000.00Uncirculated: $1,293.00 – $12,338.00
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eBayUncirculated: $465.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,200.00 – $36,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1905 Half Dollar
The 1905 Half Dollar is part of the Barber Half Dollar series, which was minted from 1892 to 1915. This coin design, created by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, was a response to public demand for more attractive coinage. The series is known for its classical and dignified appearance, reflecting the artistic preferences of late 19th-century America.
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | O, S |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (Barber), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1905 Half Dollar significantly impacts its value. Coins in circulated conditions (Good to Extra Fine) are relatively affordable, but prices increase dramatically for Uncirculated specimens. In grades MS65 and above, these coins become quite rare and valuable.
Strike quality is particularly important for Barber Half Dollars. Well-struck coins with full details on Liberty’s head and the eagle’s feathers command premium prices. Original luster is highly prized, and coins with attractive, original toning can see increased demand from collectors.
Mintage: 662,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to lower mintage and series popularity
Mintage: 505,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 4,807,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for gem-quality examples
Mint mark rarity plays a role in valuation, with the New Orleans (O) mint coins generally being more valuable due to lower mintage. The Philadelphia issues, despite no mint mark, are also scarce and desirable.
Die state can affect value, with early die state coins showing sharper details often preferred. Prooflike surfaces on business strikes, while rare, can significantly increase value. For all 1905 Half Dollars, eye appeal is crucial, with clean, problem-free coins commanding the highest premiums in the market.
