Price Guide for 1802 Half Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1802 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.
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1802, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $16.75 - $16,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $38.51 - $2,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 - $190,000.00
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1800, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $132.00 - $65,550.00
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eBayCirculated: $255.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8,500.00 - $155,000.00
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1800, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $449.00
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1800, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $426.00
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1802, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $233.00 - $3,200.00
1802/0 Half Cent Reverse of 1802, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $403.00
1802/0 Half Cent C-1 Reverse of 1800, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $161.00 - $114,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $8,500.00 - $145,000.00
1802/0 Half Cent C-2 Reverse of 1802, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $360.00 - $199,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $395.00 - $2,304.75
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 - $190,000.00
1802/0 Half Cent C-2 Reverse of 1802, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,323.00
Design and Specifications of the 1802 Half Cent
The 1802 Half Cent is part of the Draped Bust series, which was produced from 1800 to 1808. This coin represents a crucial period in early American coinage, as the young nation was still establishing its monetary system. The Half Cent, being the smallest denomination, played an important role in everyday commerce during this time.
The year 1802 is particularly significant for Half Cents, as it is considered one of the key dates in the series due to its low mintage and subsequent rarity.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (All minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust portrait of Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding 'HALF CENT' and fraction '1/200', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1802 Half Cent has a dramatic impact on its value. Due to its age and low mintage, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in Very Fine (VF) condition or better are highly sought after by collectors.
The quality of the strike is particularly important for this issue, as many examples show weakness in certain areas. Coins with strong, well-defined details command significant premiums. Original red color is extremely rare and highly prized on copper coins of this era.
Mintage: 20,266
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above VF, with AU and Mint State examples being exceptionally valuable
Varieties Errors: Reverse of 1800 (scarcer) and Reverse of 1802 (more common)
Market Demand: High, due to its key date status and importance in the Draped Bust Half Cent series
The two reverse varieties (1800 and 1802) can affect value, with the Reverse of 1800 being scarcer and more valuable. The presence of any original mint red color, even if only traces, can significantly increase the coin's desirability and value.
Provenance can play a crucial role in the value of high-grade 1802 Half Cents. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or appearance in famous auctions often command premium prices.
As with many early copper coins, the quality of the planchet and any surface issues like porosity or environmental damage can greatly impact value. Examples with smooth, problem-free surfaces are especially desirable.
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