1849 Half Dollar Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1849 Half Dollar Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1849 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.

1849 Half Dollar (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $4.00 - $5,980.00

  Uncirculated: $3.40 - $23,000.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $61.49 - $1,075.00

  Uncirculated: $250.00 - $1,250.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $45.00 - $1,350.00

  Uncirculated: $1,500.00 - $17,500.00

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1849-O Half Dollar (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $1.50 - $2,990.00

  Uncirculated: $3.15 - $28,200.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $66.50 - $790.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $45.00 - $1,600.00

  Uncirculated: $1,750.00 - $25,000.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-6, FS-301 Dramatically Doubled Date (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $870.00 - $7,130.00

  Uncirculated: $9,400.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $58.00 - $2,950.00

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1849-O Half Dollar WB-2 Large O (Regular Strike)

• eBay

  Circulated: $555.00

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1849-O Half Dollar WB-6 Large O (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $216.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-1 (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $2,820.00 - $3,120.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $277.00 - $875.00

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1849-O Half Dollar WB-12 Large O (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $408.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-9 Doubled Date (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $288.00 - $1,020.00

  Uncirculated: $480.00 - $2,585.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $72.85 - $1,800.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-11 RPD (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $188.00

  Uncirculated: $15,275.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-2 RPD (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $240.00 - $360.00

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1849-O Half Dollar WB-1 Large O (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $63.00 - $403.00

  Uncirculated: $1,680.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-12 (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $228.00

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1849 Half Dollar (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $75.00 - $86,250.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $37,500.00 - $90,000.00

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1849 Half Dollar WB-14 (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $240.00

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Design and Specifications of the 1849 Half Dollar

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of 1849 Half Dollars significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher mint state grades (MS63 and above) are particularly desirable and command substantial premiums. The New Orleans mint issues are generally found in lower grades due to extensive circulation and less careful striking.

Strike quality is an important factor, as many 1849 Half Dollars exhibit weakness in certain areas, particularly on the eagle's talons and the shield. Coins with full strike details are highly prized. Original luster and attractive natural toning can also greatly enhance the value and appeal to collectors.

Several factors can influence the value of 1849 Half Dollars beyond basic rarity and condition:

1. Die varieties: While no major varieties are known for this year, subtle die differences can be of interest to specialized collectors.

2. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can command a premium.

3. Historical significance: The connection to the California Gold Rush era adds appeal for history-oriented collectors.

4. Original mint luster: Specimens retaining original cartwheel luster are highly desirable.

5. Even, attractive toning: Natural, multicolored toning can significantly increase eye appeal and value.