1845 Braided Hair Half Cent Value Guide (Proof Only)
The 1845 Half Cent, a proof-only issue, ranges from $3,450 to $42,500. Three distinct varieties exist: Original with large berries, and two restrikes with small berries.
The 1845 Braided Hair Half Cent is worth $3,450 to $42,500 depending on variety and grade.
- Original (Large Berries): $16,800 – $42,500
- First Restrike (Rev. of 1856): $15,275 – $27,500
- Second Restrike (Rev. of 1840): $3,450 – $27,500
This is a proof-only issue with no business strikes produced. All varieties are major rarities with combined populations under 60 coins.
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1845 Braided Hair Half Cent: A Proof-Only Rarity
1845 Braided Hair Half Cent featuring Liberty with braided hair and laurel wreath reverse
The 1845 Braided Hair Half Cent represents a unique chapter in American numismatics—a coin struck exclusively for collectors that never saw circulation. All examples were produced as proofs at the Philadelphia Mint, with no business strikes manufactured. Values range from $3,450 to over $42,500 depending on variety and grade. Three distinct varieties exist, each identifiable by specific die characteristics. This guide covers identification, valuation, authentication, and the fascinating history behind these premier numismatic rarities with combined populations estimated at fewer than 60 specimens.
How to Identify Your 1845 Half Cent
All 1845 Half Cents were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and bear no mint mark. The coins feature Christian Gobrecht's Braided Hair design with Liberty facing left on the obverse, wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Thirteen stars encircle her portrait, and her hair is tied in a bun with beaded cords. The reverse displays a continuous laurel wreath tied at the bottom with a ribbon, enclosing the denomination HALF CENT, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the border.
Key diagnostic: Original variety (left) has large berries; restrikes (right) have small berries
The most critical identification step is examining the berries on the reverse wreath. This single feature separates originals from restrikes:
- Original: Features distinctly large berries in the wreath
- Restrikes: Feature noticeably small berries in the wreath
If your coin has small berries (indicating a restrike), further examination determines whether it's a First or Second Restrike. The First Restrike uses a reverse die from 1856 and may show slight doubling on the letters NT in CENT. The Second Restrike uses a reverse die from 1840 and exhibits fine, parallel diagonal die file marks in the field above the letters RICA in AMERICA.
Diagnostic features distinguishing First and Second Restrikes
All three varieties share the same obverse die (Breen-1), which shows minor repunching below the numeral 5 in the date and beneath the letters E and T in LIBERTY. The coin's specifications include a weight of 5.44 grams (84 grains), diameter of 23.00 mm, and plain edge.
1845 Half Cent Values by Variety and Grade
The 1845 Half Cent market is complex, with values heavily dependent on the specific variety. Both PCGS and NGC price guides improperly group the First and Second Restrikes under a single category, failing to capture the significant rarity premium the First Restrike commands. Recent auction results provide the most reliable value indicators.
1845 Original (Large Berries) — Cohen PO-6, Breen 1-A
This is the true original striking from 1845, representing an extreme rarity with survival estimates ranging from just over a dozen to a maximum of 20 pieces. The market for these coins is strong, with significant premiums paid for problem-free surfaces and superior eye appeal. There is a notable discrepancy between PCGS and NGC price guides at the PR-64 level, with auction results suggesting the PCGS value is more aligned with current market conditions.
| Grade | PCGS Price (BN) | NGC Price (BN) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $20,500 | $11,500 |
| PR-63 | $26,500 | N/A |
| PR-64 | $42,500 | $11,500 |
| PR-65 | N/A | $32,500 |
Notable auction results: PR62BN (PCGS) sold for $16,800(Heritage Auctions, September 2019); PR63BN (PCGS, CAC) realized $18,000(Stack's Bowers, November 2021); PR64BN (NGC, CAC) brought $23,500(Heritage Auctions, April 2013); and a PR64 example sold for $35,650(Goldberg Auctioneers, January 2014).
1845 First Restrike (Small Berries, Rev. of 1856) — Cohen SR-7, Breen 1-B
The First Restrike is the rarest of the three 1845 varieties. Walter Breen listed only six examples, and modern estimates place the population at a mere eight to ten coins. Because price guides improperly group this with the more common Second Restrike, its true market value is only revealed through auction records. These results confirm that a high-grade First Restrike is among the most valuable of all 1845 Half Cents.
| Grade | Price Guide (BN) |
|---|---|
| PR-62 | $4,400 |
| PR-63 | $6,350 |
| PR-64 | $8,000 |
| PR-65 | $12,000–$16,500 |
| PR-66 | $21,500 |
| PR-67 | $27,500 |
The finest documented sales include a PR65BN (PCGS) that realized $21,275(Goldberg Auctioneers, January 2014) and a PR65BN (PCGS, CAC) that brought $15,275(Heritage Auctions, August 2016). Note that price guide values shown lump First and Second Restrikes together and do not reflect the specific rarity of the First Restrike.
Color designations: Brown (BN), Red-Brown (RB), and Red (RD) examples
1845 Second Restrike (Small Berries, Rev. of 1840) — Cohen SR-22, Breen 1-C
While still a significant rarity, the Second Restrike is the most frequently encountered of the 1845 varieties, with a population estimated between 12 and 36 pieces. The NGC price guide values for "Restrike" are more reflective of this variety than the First Restrike. The finest known example, graded PR-67, has consistently sold for strong prices, establishing the ceiling for the variety.
| Grade | Price Guide (BN) |
|---|---|
| PR-62 | $4,400 |
| PR-63 | $6,350 |
| PR-64 | $8,000 |
| PR-65 | $12,000–$16,500 |
| PR-66 | $21,500 |
| PR-67 | $27,500 |
Recent auction highlights include a PR62BN (PCGS) at $3,450(Heritage Auctions, August 1998), PR63BN (NGC) at $4,800(Heritage Auctions, July 2021), PR64BN (PCGS) at $7,931(Heritage Auctions, May 2015), PR66BN (NGC, CAC) at $12,000(Stack's Bowers, November 2021), and the record PR67BN (NGC) at $18,000(Stack's Bowers, August 2025).
💡 Melt Value Context
The intrinsic copper melt value of an 1845 Half Cent is approximately $0.92 based on current metal prices. This negligible amount underscores that these coins are valued exclusively as historical artifacts and collectibles. Their worth derives entirely from extreme rarity, historical significance, and collector demand.
Grading 1845 Proof Half Cents
Grading Proof coins focuses on surface preservation and strike quality rather than wear patterns seen on circulated pieces. The 1845 Half Cent exists only in Proof format, so understanding Proof characteristics is essential for accurate evaluation.
Original proof surface (left) versus improperly cleaned example (right)
Strike Quality: A well-struck proof exhibits razor-sharp details on all high points. Look for complete definition in Liberty's hair cords and individual leaves of the reverse wreath. Originals struck from fresh dies typically show the sharpest impressions, with deeply mirrored fields and sharply defined devices. Restrikes may exhibit signs of die aging, including fine die polish lines or subtle field bulging.
Surface Preservation: The condition of the coin's surfaces is paramount to grade and value. Pristine, mark-free fields with deep mirror-like reflection command top grades. Any hairlines, scratches, or contact marks reduce the grade significantly. Carbon spots (small black dots known as "flyspecks") are common on copper and, while minor spotting may be tolerated on lower proof grades, a spot-free surface is required for grades above PR-65.
Cameo proof effect with frosted Liberty portrait against mirror-like fields
Cameo Effect: Some examples exhibit a "cameo" appearance with frosted devices contrasting against deeply mirrored fields. This desirable feature results from fresh, highly polished dies and adds significant eye appeal, though it is not captured in standard BN/RB/RD designations.
Color and Patina: Copper coins are graded with color designations that dramatically impact value. Brown (BN) examples retain less than 5% of original mint red. Red-Brown (RB) specimens show 5% to 95% red coloration and are of highest rarity for 1845 Half Cents, commanding substantial premiums. Fully Red (RD) examples with over 95% original red color are essentially unknown for this date. Natural, attractive toning is preferred over unnaturally bright or artificially colored surfaces.
Strike characteristics: Original (sharp details) versus Restrike (high wire rim)
Restrike Characteristics: Restrikes often display unique physical characteristics resulting from their later production. These may include unnaturally sharp, high "wire" rims from the immense striking pressure used to achieve full impressions from aged dies. Signs of die rust, fine polish lines, or slight field irregularities can also indicate a restrike, though these features require experience to properly identify.
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
Key authentication checkpoints: weight, edge, die characteristics
Due to their high value, 1845 Half Cents are potential targets for counterfeiters. While no specific forgeries of the 1845 are widely publicized, the threat is always present. The most deceptive fakes are transfer-die counterfeits, struck from dies created from a genuine host coin. These can replicate die markers but will also transfer any imperfections from the host coin to every fake produced.
Begin authentication by verifying physical specifications. An authentic specimen must weigh 5.44 grams and measure 23.00 mm in diameter. Significant deviations are immediate red flags. The edge should be plain with no seam around the circumference—a seam is a definitive sign of a cast counterfeit.
Examine die characteristics carefully. First, confirm the berry size on the reverse: large berries indicate an original, small berries indicate a restrike. The coin must then match known diagnostics for its specific variety. The Original shows minor repunching below the numeral 5 in the date and beneath E and T in LIBERTY. The Second Restrike displays prominent diagonal die file marks above RICA in AMERICA. The First Restrike may show slight doubling on the letters NT in CENT. The style of date numerals and lettering must match genuine examples.
Surface examination reveals additional clues. Look for tool marks, raised pimples, or porous surface texture, which can indicate a cast counterfeit. Genuine proofs should exhibit smooth, reflective fields (unless cleaned or damaged). Any suspicious surface characteristics warrant expert examination.
⚠️ Third-Party Certification Essential
Given the financial risk and the subtlety of diagnostics required for proper attribution, purchasing an 1845 Half Cent that has not been authenticated and graded by a top-tier service like PCGS or NGC is exceptionally ill-advised. These services authenticate the coin, attribute it to the correct variety, and assess its condition, providing crucial protection for buyers.
Die Varieties and Attribution
The standard reference works for early half cents are Roger S. Cohen, Jr.'s American Half Cents, The "Little Half Sisters" and Walter Breen's Encyclopedia of United States Half Cents. These works provide the attribution numbers used by numismatists and grading services to identify the three distinct 1845 varieties.
Cohen PO-6 / Breen 1-A: The Original
Designated "PO-6" by Cohen, where "PO" signifies "Proof Original," this is the authentic issue struck in 1845. It pairs the Breen-1 obverse with the Breen-A reverse. The primary identifier is the large berries on the reverse wreath. The obverse die (Breen-1) is common to all three varieties and shows minor repunching below the numeral 5 in the date and beneath the letters E and T in LIBERTY. Survival estimates range from just over a dozen to a maximum of 20 pieces, making this an extreme rarity.
Cohen SR-7 / Breen 1-B: The First Restrike
Designated "SR-7" by Cohen, this variety pairs the Breen-1 obverse with the Breen-B (Reverse of 1856) reverse. It features small berries on the reverse, and a key diagnostic can be faint doubling on the letters NT of CENT. This is the rarest of the 1845 varieties, with a population estimated at only eight to ten coins. The use of an 1856 reverse die to create coins dated 1845 provides compelling evidence of the unofficial, ad-hoc nature of the restriking process.
Cohen SR-22 / Breen 1-C: The Second Restrike
Designated "SR-22" by Cohen, this variety pairs the Breen-1 obverse with the Breen-C (Reverse of 1840) reverse. It also features small berries and is definitively identified by prominent diagonal die file marks above the letters RICA in AMERICA on the reverse. While still a significant rarity, this is the most frequently encountered variety with a population estimated between 12 and 36 pieces. The pairing of an 1840s reverse die with the 1845-dated obverse suggests that a Mint employee gained access to the original obverse die years later and paired it with whatever serviceable reverse dies were available in the vault.
Potential Mint Errors
Major mint errors on specially prepared Proof coinage are exceedingly rare. The planchets for 1845 Half Cents were carefully selected, and the striking process was deliberate, often involving multiple strikes to ensure full impressions. As such, errors like off-center strikes, broadstrikes, or coins struck on wrong planchets are virtually unheard of for this issue. The discovery of a genuine 1845 Proof Half Cent with a major error would be a monumental numismatic event.
Plausible minor errors are limited to those inherent to the dies themselves. Later strikes from the restrike dies could potentially show minor die cracks, chips, or signs of die rust. A misalignment of the hammer and anvil dies during striking could result in a rotated reverse. While no examples are widely known for the 1845 Half Cent specifically, rotated dies are a known error type for the period. Overzealous polishing of a die to remove clash marks or other imperfections can efface nearby design elements—the "No Drapery" variety of the 1845-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a prime example of this type of error. A similar effect on an 1845 Half Cent, while not documented, is theoretically possible.
The valuation of any significant, authenticated error on an 1845 Half Cent would be determined at auction. Given the rarity of the base coin, such a piece would command a massive premium, with a potential value well in excess of $50,000, and possibly over $100,000, depending on the error's nature and visual impact.
Preservation and Storage
Proper preservation is critical to protect these sensitive copper coins from environmental damage. The 1845 Half Cent should be stored in a stable, low-humidity environment to prevent corrosion and spotting. Copper is highly reactive to moisture and atmospheric contaminants, and even coins stored in collections for over a century can develop small black carbon spots if not properly protected.
Encapsulated holders from PCGS or NGC provide excellent long-term protection. These sonically sealed slabs create a stable microenvironment around the coin, protecting it from handling damage and environmental exposure. Avoid storing coins in holders containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which can leach onto the coin's surface over time and cause irreversible green or sticky residue damage.
Never attempt to clean an 1845 Half Cent. Harsh cleaning creates microscopic scratches (hairlines) across the fields, destroying the original mirrored surfaces and drastically reducing value. Even gentle cleaning with soft cloths can leave marks. If you believe your coin needs conservation, consult a professional numismatic conservator affiliated with a major grading service. Handle the coin by its edges only, and minimize exposure to skin oils and moisture.
Recent Auction Results
Auction records provide the most accurate picture of current market values for the three 1845 Half Cent varieties. The following results span from 1998 to 2025 and demonstrate the strength and consistency of the market for these major rarities.
Original (Large Berries) Sales: A PR62BN example graded by PCGS realized $16,800 at Heritage Auctions in September 2019. A PR63BN (PCGS) with CAC approval brought $18,000 at Stack's Bowers in November 2021. At the PR-64 level, an NGC-graded example with CAC sold for $23,500 at Heritage in April 2013. The strongest result for the Original variety was a PR-64 specimen that commanded $35,650 at Goldberg Auctioneers in January 2014.
First Restrike Sales: This rarest variety has produced exceptional results at the gem level. A PR65BN graded by PCGS achieved $21,275 at Goldberg in January 2014. Another PR65BN (PCGS) with CAC approval sold for $15,275 at Heritage in August 2016, demonstrating that even within the same grade, individual specimen quality affects final prices.
Second Restrike Sales: As the most available variety (though still rare in absolute terms), the Second Restrike has a broader auction history. Lower-grade examples include a PR62BN (PCGS) at $3,450 in 1998 and a PR63BN (NGC) at $4,800 in July 2021. Mid-range grades include a PR64BN (PCGS) at $7,931 in May 2015. At the top end, a PR66BN (NGC) with CAC brought $12,000 in November 2021. The finest known Second Restrike, graded PR67BN by NGC, sold for $18,000 at Stack's Bowers in August 2025, continuing a pattern of strong prices for this top population coin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1845 Half Cent worth?
Value depends entirely on which of the three varieties you have and its grade. The Original (large berries) ranges from $16,800 to $42,500. The First Restrike (small berries, Rev. of 1856) ranges from $15,275 to $27,500. The Second Restrike (small berries, Rev. of 1840) ranges from $3,450 to $27,500. All values assume Brown (BN) color designation and certified authentic condition.
Were any business strikes made in 1845?
No. The 1845 Half Cent is a proof-only issue. From 1840 through 1848, the Mint produced no half cents for circulation, instead satisfying low public demand from a large surplus of coins struck in 1834 and 1835. During this period, only a small number of Proofs were struck each year for collectors and diplomatic presentation sets.
What are the different 1845 Half Cent varieties?
Three varieties exist: the Original with large berries on the reverse wreath (struck in 1845), the First Restrike with small berries using a reverse die from 1856 (struck years later), and the Second Restrike with small berries using a reverse die from 1840 (also struck years later). Combined population for all three varieties is estimated at fewer than 60 coins.
Should I get my 1845 Half Cent professionally graded?
Yes, without question. Given values starting in the thousands of dollars and the subtle diagnostics required to properly attribute the variety, purchasing or selling an 1845 Half Cent without third-party certification from PCGS or NGC is extremely risky. Authentication and attribution by these services is essential for establishing value and ensuring authenticity.
How do I tell if my coin is cleaned?
Cleaned copper coins show microscopic scratches (hairlines) in the fields, creating a dull or unnaturally bright appearance. Original proof surfaces should have deep, undisturbed mirror-like reflection in the fields. Look for uniform color that appears artificial rather than natural toning patterns. Any coin suspected of being cleaned should be examined under magnification. Cleaning drastically reduces value, and cleaned coins typically receive "Details" grades from certification services rather than numeric grades.
What is the melt value of an 1845 Half Cent?
The copper melt value is approximately $0.92 based on current metal prices. This negligible amount demonstrates that 1845 Half Cents are valued exclusively as collectibles. Their worth derives entirely from extreme rarity, historical significance, and numismatic demand rather than intrinsic metal content.
What does RB or BN mean on a graded copper coin?
These are color designations for copper coins. BN (Brown) means less than 5% of original mint red color remains. RB (Red-Brown) indicates 5% to 95% original red color is visible. RD (Red) means over 95% original red color is present. For 1845 Half Cents, RB examples are of highest rarity and command substantial premiums over BN specimens. Fully RD examples are essentially unknown for this date.
How can I tell the First and Second Restrikes apart?
Both restrikes have small berries, but they can be distinguished by reverse die characteristics. The First Restrike uses a reverse die from 1856 and may show slight doubling on the letters NT in CENT. The Second Restrike uses a reverse die from 1840 and exhibits prominent diagonal die file marks in the field above the letters RICA in AMERICA. Proper attribution often requires expert examination under magnification.
Why are there restrikes of the 1845 Half Cent?
The restrikes were created years after 1845, likely in the late 1850s or early 1860s, to meet continued collector demand. A Mint employee gained access to the original 1845 obverse die and paired it with available reverse dies from 1840 and 1856 to create additional pieces. This unofficial, ad-hoc process resulted in die mules—coins with mismatched dies from different years—revealing a transition period when the Mint began serving collector interests through sometimes irregular channels.
What should I look for when buying an 1845 Half Cent?
Only purchase coins certified by PCGS or NGC with clear variety attribution (Original, First Restrike, or Second Restrike). Examine the holder photograph for surface problems like cleaning, scratches, or excessive carbon spotting. Verify the color designation matches the coin's appearance. Request high-resolution images if buying remotely. Consider CAC-approved examples for additional quality assurance. Given values in the thousands to tens of thousands, work with established dealers and auction houses with strong reputations in early American copper.
Pricing Methodology and Sources
Price data in this guide derives from multiple authoritative sources to provide the most accurate market valuations. Primary pricing references include the PCGS CoinFacts Price Guide and the NGC Coin Explorer Price Guide, both updated monthly to reflect current market conditions. However, because these guides improperly group First and Second Restrikes together, auction records provide critical supplemental data, especially for the rarer First Restrike variety.
Auction results cited are from major numismatic auction houses including Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and Goldberg Auctioneers. Historical references and variety attributions follow Roger S. Cohen, Jr.'s American Half Cents and Walter Breen's Encyclopedia of United States Half Cents, the standard works for the series. Additional technical information is sourced from Rare Coin Wholesalers, BraidedHairHalfCent.com, and CoinAppraiser.com.
Coin values fluctuate based on market conditions, individual specimen quality, and collector demand. Prices shown represent typical market values for problem-free, certified examples. Actual realized prices may vary based on eye appeal, pedigree, and auction venue. This guide was last updated in October 2025.
