Price Guide for 1815 Half Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1815 Half Dollar 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.
1815/2 Half Dollar (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $23.00 - $34,075.00Uncirculated: $36.00 - $182,125.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,000.00 - $8,766.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,750.00 - $25,000.00Uncirculated: $27,500.00 - $250,000.00
1815/2 Half Dollar Overton 101a (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,175.00 - $20,527.20Uncirculated: $30,000.00 - $55,812.50
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eBayCirculated: $2,999.99 - $3,228.90
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,750.00 - $20,000.00Uncirculated: $22,500.00 - $130,000.00
1815/2 Half Dollar Overton 101 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,187.93 - $16,450.00Uncirculated: $18,000.00 - $126,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $2,230.00 - $6,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 - $20,000.00Uncirculated: $22,500.00 - $150,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1815 Half Dollar
The 1815 Half Dollar is a highly significant and rare coin in American numismatics. It is the only date in the Capped Bust Half Dollar series (1807-1839) where no coins were officially recorded as being struck. The existence of this coin has long been a subject of debate and fascination among collectors and researchers.
The lack of production in 1815 was primarily due to a shortage of planchets (blank coin discs) caused by the disruption of silver shipments during the War of 1812. This historical context makes the 1815 Half Dollar a unique representation of the economic challenges faced by the young United States.
| Weight | 13.48 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Capped Bust of Liberty facing left, designed by John Reich |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle with shield, designed by John Reich |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1815 Half Dollar has a profound impact on its value, given its extreme rarity. However, the mere existence of a genuine 1815 Half Dollar, regardless of condition, is remarkable.
Due to the controversial nature of this date, authentication is crucial. Any genuine specimen would be highly valuable, with even heavily worn examples commanding significant premiums. The few known specimens are typically found in lower grades, making high-grade examples exceptionally valuable.
Strike quality, luster, and overall eye appeal play important roles in determining value, but the rarity of the date overshadows most condition concerns.
Mintage: Unknown (Possibly none officially recorded)
Rarity Scale: Extremely Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in all grades, with only a handful of specimens known to exist
Varieties Errors: All genuine 1815 Half Dollars are considered significant varieties
Market Demand: High, due to its extreme rarity and historical importance
The 1815 Half Dollar's value is primarily driven by its extreme rarity and historical significance. The debate surrounding its existence adds to its allure among collectors and researchers.
Factors that can further influence value include:
1. Provenance: A well-documented history of ownership can significantly increase value.
2. Authentication: Given the rarity and value, third-party authentication and grading are essential.
3. Die characteristics: Any unique die features or variations could potentially add to the coin's value and historical importance.
4. Historical context: The coin's connection to the War of 1812 and early American economic challenges adds to its numismatic and historical value.
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