Price Guide for 1857 Half Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1857 Half Dime 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.
1857 Half Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $11.00 - $210.00Uncirculated: $0.90 - $7,475.00
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eBayCirculated: $22.50 - $219.50Uncirculated: $129.00 - $6,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 - $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 - $18,500.00
1857-O Half Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $0.60 - $822.50Uncirculated: $3.00 - $24,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $21.00 - $395.00Uncirculated: $449.00 - $719.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 - $475.00Uncirculated: $500.00 - $30,000.00
1857 Half Dime (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,265.00 - $17,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $675.00 - $15,000.00
1857 Half Dime, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,738.00 - $29,900.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,750.00
Design and Specifications of the 1857 Half Dime
The 1857 Half Dime was part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This coin was minted during a period of economic uncertainty leading up to the Panic of 1857, a financial crisis that would significantly impact the American economy. The Half Dime, being the smallest silver denomination, played a crucial role in everyday commerce during this time.
| Weight | 1.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | New Orleans (O), Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1857 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are considerably more valuable due to their scarcity. The New Orleans mint coins, in particular, are highly sought after in uncirculated condition.
Strike quality is an important factor, as many coins from this era suffer from weak strikes. Well-struck examples with full details command a premium. Original luster and attractive natural toning can also greatly enhance a coin's desirability and value.
Mintage: 7,280,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 1,380,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Mintmark plays a crucial role in determining value, with New Orleans (O) mint coins generally being more valuable than their Philadelphia counterparts. The preservation of details on Liberty's head and the wreath on the reverse are key areas that collectors scrutinize.
Die varieties, while not as prominent in this year, can still affect value. Collectors also pay attention to the quality of the planchet and any signs of die deterioration or interesting die states, which can add numismatic interest and value to the coin.
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