Price Guide for 1803 Half Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1803 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.
1803 Half Cent, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4.50 - $49,350.00Uncirculated: $3,400.00 - $17,250.00
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eBayCirculated: $35.00 - $3,150.00Uncirculated: $1,125.00 - $5,951.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $30.00 - $6,000.00Uncirculated: $6,500.00 - $22,500.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 2, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $102.00 - $48,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 - $42,500.00
1803 Half Cent, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $109.00 - $489.00Uncirculated: $5.25 - $8,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,500.00 - $285,000.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 1, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $74.00 - $6,037.50Uncirculated: $4,320.00 - $9,987.50
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eBayCirculated: $59.69 - $208.27Uncirculated: $1,399.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $105.00 - $6,000.00Uncirculated: $6,600.00 - $22,000.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 1, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $19,200.00 - $36,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $22,500.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 3, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $176.00 - $3,290.00Uncirculated: $2,880.00 - $15,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $195.00 - $1,125.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $110.00 - $6,250.00Uncirculated: $7,000.00 - $14,500.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 3, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $287,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $325,000.00
1803 Half Cent Cohen 4, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $324.00 - $11,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $396.00 - $636.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $240.00 - $13,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1803 Half Cent
The 1803 Half Cent is part of the Draped Bust series, which was produced from 1800 to 1808. This coin represents an important period in early American coinage, as the nation was still establishing its monetary system. The Half Cent, being the smallest denomination, played a crucial role in everyday commerce during this time.
The year 1803 saw a significant increase in production compared to previous years, reflecting the growing demand for small change in the expanding American economy.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust of Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding denomination 'HALF CENT', designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1803 Half Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to the age and extensive circulation of these coins, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) are very rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Environmental damage, such as corrosion or porosity, can severely affect value. Coins with original red or red-brown color command a premium, as most surviving examples have turned brown over time.
Mintage: 92,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Three main varieties: C-1 (Widest Date), C-2 (Close Date), and C-3 (With Stems)
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The three main varieties of the 1803 Half Cent can affect value, with the C-3 (With Stems) variety being slightly scarcer. Strike quality is an important factor, as many coins from this era were weakly struck. Examples with full details, especially in the hair and wreath, are more desirable.
Provenance can also play a role in value, particularly for high-grade examples with a history of belonging to notable collections. The overall eye appeal, including factors like toning and surface quality, can significantly influence collector interest and value.
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