Price Guide for 1844 Half Cent Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1844 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.

1844 Res Half Cent Reverse of 1856, BN (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $6,300.00

1844 Res Half Cent Reverse of 1856, RB (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $28,800.00 - $74,750.00

1844 Res Half Cent Reverse of 1840, BN (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $4,800.00 - $36,800.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Uncirculated: $22,500.00 - $27,500.00

1844 Half Cent Original, BN (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $2,415.00 - $4,888.00
    Uncirculated: $75.00 - $71,875.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Circulated: $3,000.00 - $4,250.00
    Uncirculated: $5,850.00 - $92,500.00

1844 Half Cent Original, RB (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $4,620.00 - $22,800.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Uncirculated: $7,000.00 - $32,500.00

1844 Half Cent Original, RD (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $5,463.00 - $102,000.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Uncirculated: $8,000.00 - $18,000.00

1844 Half Cent Restrike, BN (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Circulated: $2,530.00 - $3,220.00
    Uncirculated: $40.00 - $10,800.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Uncirculated: $6,250.00 - $28,500.00

1844 Half Cent Restrike, RB (Proof)

  • 3rd Party Price
    Uncirculated: $3,080.00 - $15,000.00
  • PCGS Price Guide
    Uncirculated: $9,000.00 - $37,500.00

Design and Specifications of the 1844 Half Cent

The 1844 Half Cent was part of the Braided Hair series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1857 when the denomination was discontinued. This coin represents a late period in the half cent's history, as the denomination was becoming less economically viable due to inflation and changing economic conditions.

Half cents were primarily used for making change in transactions involving Spanish colonial coins, which were still in circulation in the United States at the time. The 1844 issue was produced in relatively low numbers, reflecting the declining demand for this denomination.

Weight 5.44 grams
Diameter 23.5 mm
Mint Marks None (Philadelphia only)
Composition 100% Copper
Obverse Design Liberty Head (Braided Hair), designed by Christian Gobrecht
Reverse Design Wreath surrounding 'HALF CENT', designed by Christian Gobrecht

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of an 1844 Half Cent significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade specimens can be challenging. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable and sought after by collectors.

Original red color is highly prized in copper coins of this era. Specimens retaining a significant amount of original mint luster and red color command substantial premiums. Conversely, environmental damage, cleaning, or heavy circulation wear can significantly decrease the coin's value.

Philadelphia, No Mint Mark

Mintage: 39,864

Rarity Scale: Scarce

Circulation Status: Limited Circulation

Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above

Varieties Errors: None significant

Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens

Strike quality is an important factor for 1844 Half Cents. Well-struck coins with full details, especially in Liberty's hair and the wreath on the reverse, are more desirable. Even, attractive toning can also enhance a coin's appeal and value.

As a scarce date in the Braided Hair series, the 1844 Half Cent is popular among type collectors and series specialists alike. Its historical significance as one of the last half cents minted before the denomination's discontinuation adds to its numismatic interest and value.

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