Price Guide for 1927 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: $17.00 – $3,800.00Uncirculated: $2.00 – $44,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $9.99 – $1,725.08Uncirculated: $985.00 – $7,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $2,300.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $30,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1927 Half Dollar
The 1927 Half Dollar is part of the Walking Liberty series, which was minted from 1916 to 1947. This iconic design, created by Adolph A. Weinman, is considered one of the most beautiful in American coinage history. The obverse depicts Lady Liberty striding towards the sunrise, symbolizing the nation’s forward progress, while the reverse features a bold eagle, representing strength and freedom.
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco), No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Walking Liberty, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
| Reverse Design | Eagle perched on rock with wings spread, designed by Adolph A. Weinman |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1927 Half Dollars significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher mint state grades (MS63 and above) are particularly desirable and command substantial premiums. The quality of the strike is crucial, as many Walking Liberty Half Dollars suffer from weak strikes, especially on Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s feathers.
Luster is another important factor, with coins retaining their original mint luster being more valuable. Toning can also affect value, with attractive, natural toning often enhancing a coin’s appeal to collectors.
Mintage: 11,528,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 2,392,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Several factors can influence the value of 1927 Half Dollars:
1. Strike Quality: Full strike examples, especially those with sharp details on Liberty’s hand and the eagle’s feathers, are highly sought after.
2. Mint Mark: The San Francisco (S) mint issue is scarcer and generally more valuable than the Philadelphia issue.
3. Preservation: Well-preserved examples with minimal contact marks or wear are particularly valuable, especially in grades MS65 and above.
4. Original Surfaces: Coins with original, uncleaned surfaces are preferred by collectors and often command higher premiums.
5. Eye Appeal: Coins with exceptional eye appeal, due to strong luster or attractive toning, can sell for significant premiums above standard price guides.
