Price Guide for 1796 Half Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1796 Half Cent 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.
1796 Half Cent With Pole, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $205.00 - $158,625.00Uncirculated: $6,325.00 - $402,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $9,500.00 - $19,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $11,500.00 - $210,000.00Uncirculated: $215,000.00 - $550,000.00
1796 Half Cent No Pole, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $97.00 - $345,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $7,300.00 - $8,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35,000.00 - $250,000.00Uncirculated: $460,000.00 - $1,050,000.00
1796 Half Cent No Pole, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $121.00Uncirculated: $506,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $975,000.00
1796 Half Cent No Pole, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $127.00 - $265.00
1796 Half Cent Edwards Copy, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $252.00 - $6,325.00Uncirculated: $8,625.00 - $25,300.00
1796 Half Cent Edwards Copy, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $21,600.00 - $37,950.00
1796 Half Cent Edwards Copy, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,783.00
1796 Half Cent C-1, No Pole, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $18,600.00 - $156,000.00Uncirculated: $432,000.00 - $891,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $23,500.00 - $250,000.00Uncirculated: $400,000.00 - $785,000.00
1796 Half Cent C-1 No Pole, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $763,750.00 - $780,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $850,000.00
1796 Half Cent C-2 With Pole, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $6,600.00 - $40,250.00Uncirculated: $129,250.00 - $192,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $10,499.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10,000.00 - $210,000.00Uncirculated: $215,000.00 - $550,000.00
1796 Half Cent C-2 With Pole, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $288,000.00 - $718,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $350,000.00 - $650,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1796 Half Cent
The 1796 Half Cent is a significant early American coin, minted during the formative years of the United States. It was part of the Draped Bust design series, which replaced the earlier Liberty Cap design. This coin represents one of the earliest denominations authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792 and was primarily used for small transactions and making change.
The year 1796 is particularly notable as it marks the first appearance of the Draped Bust design on the Half Cent, making it a transitional and historically important issue for collectors and numismatists.
| Weight | 6.74 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing right with flowing hair, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath enclosing denomination 'HALF CENT', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1796 Half Cent has a profound impact on its value. Due to its age and rarity, even low-grade specimens command significant premiums. Coins in VF (Very Fine) condition or better are highly sought after and can be worth substantial amounts.
The presence or absence of the pole behind Liberty's head is a major factor in determining value, with the 'No Pole' variety being rarer and more valuable. Original red color, when present, can greatly enhance the coin's desirability and value.
Mintage: 1,390
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, with only a handful known in Mint State
Varieties Errors: With Pole and No Pole varieties
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a key date and first year of type
Strike quality is crucial for 1796 Half Cents, as many were weakly struck. Well-struck examples with full detail command significant premiums. Surface preservation is also vital, with smooth, problem-free surfaces being highly desirable.
The historical significance of this coin as the first year of the Draped Bust design adds to its numismatic value. Provenance can also play a role, with coins from famous collections often commanding higher prices. Lastly, originality and eye appeal are key factors that can significantly influence the coin's overall value and desirability among advanced collectors.
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