Price Guide for 1834 Half Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1834 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.
1834 Half Cent, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $31.00 - $420.00Uncirculated: $1.05 - $3,840.00
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eBayCirculated: $26.00 - $876.00Uncirculated: $170.27 - $1,725.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $34.00 - $400.00Uncirculated: $450.00 - $11,000.00
1834 Half Cent, BN (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $57.00Uncirculated: $1,800.00 - $12,650.00
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eBayCirculated: $136.38
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,800.00 - $22,500.00
1834 Half Cent, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $47.00 - $258.50Uncirculated: $357.00 - $8,518.75
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eBayCirculated: $184.50Uncirculated: $735.55
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $550.00 - $12,750.00
1834 Half Cent, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,360.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 - $23,500.00
1834 Half Cent, RB (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $5,500.00 - $18,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6,000.00 - $52,500.00
1834 Half Cent, RD (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $96,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $115,000.00
1834 Half Cent Cohen 1, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $34.00 - $360.00Uncirculated: $144.00 - $4,080.00
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eBayCirculated: $18.00 - $225.00Uncirculated: $325.00 - $1,127.77
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $450.00 - $8,500.00
1834 Half Cent Cohen 1, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $385.00 - $26,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $500.00 - $8,750.00
1834 Half Cent Cohen 1, BN (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $14,100.00
1834 Half Cent Cohen 1, RB (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $92,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1834 Half Cent
The 1834 Half Cent is part of the Classic Head series, which was minted from 1809 to 1836. This coin represents a transitional period in American coinage, as the nation was moving towards a more standardized currency system. The Half Cent, while not widely used in commerce, played a role in small transactions and was particularly useful in regions where Spanish colonial coins were still in circulation.
| Weight | 5.44 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 100% Copper |
| Obverse Design | Classic Head design, featuring Liberty facing left with hair tied by a ribbon, designed by John Reich |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'HALF CENT' and the fraction '1/200', designed by John Reich |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition is crucial for the 1834 Half Cent's value. Due to its age and limited mintage, high-grade examples are scarce. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or higher) are particularly valuable, with premium prices for those exhibiting original red color. Even in circulated grades, coins with clear details and minimal wear command higher prices.
The quality of the strike can vary, affecting the sharpness of design elements. Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable. Surface quality is also important, with collectors preferring coins free from significant marks or corrosion.
Mintage: 141,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Original mint luster significantly enhances value, especially if it has a cartwheel effect. Attractive, natural toning can also increase desirability among collectors. The presence of prooflike surfaces, though rare, can substantially increase value.
While not typically collected by die varieties, any unusual characteristics or mint errors could potentially increase value. The historical significance of the Classic Head design and its relatively short production period add to the coin's appeal among collectors of early American copper coinage.
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