Price Guide for 1866 Half Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1866 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.
1866 Half Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $247.00 - $1,116.00Uncirculated: $461.00 - $9,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $36.11 - $1,700.00Uncirculated: $725.00 - $1,153.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 - $1,550.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 - $11,000.00
1866-S Half Dime (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.10 - $633.00Uncirculated: $288.00 - $15,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $100.00 - $495.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 - $750.00Uncirculated: $800.00 - $18,500.00
1866 Half Dime (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $264.00 - $805.00Uncirculated: $4.15 - $14,100.00
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eBayUncirculated: $562.00 - $1,350.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 - $350.00Uncirculated: $400.00 - $7,500.00
1866 Half Dime, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $499.38 - $11,162.50
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eBayUncirculated: $1,070.00 - $1,149.75
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $700.00 - $11,500.00
1866 Half Dime, DCAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,840.00 - $19,975.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,250.00 - $27,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1866 Half Dime
The 1866 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which was minted from 1837 to 1873. This year is significant as it marks the first year of production following the Civil War, during which silver coinage had been hoarded and largely disappeared from circulation. The reintroduction of silver coins, including the Half Dime, was an important step in normalizing the post-war economy.
| Weight | 1.24 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco), P (Philadelphia, no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath of laurel leaves enclosing the denomination, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1866 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value. Circulation strikes, especially from Philadelphia, are relatively common in lower grades but become increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. The San Francisco issues are particularly valuable in all grades due to their low mintage.
Strike quality is an important factor, as many coins from this era can have weak strikes, particularly on the central devices. Luster is highly prized on uncirculated specimens, with coins retaining original mint luster commanding premium prices. Toning can also add to the value, with attractive, natural toning being desirable to many collectors.
Mintage: 10,725,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 120,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS63 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
The 1866-S Half Dime is a key date in the series due to its low mintage, making it highly sought after by collectors. For both mint marks, examples with sharp strikes and minimal contact marks are particularly desirable.
Proofs were also minted in 1866, with a mintage of 725. These proof issues are rare and highly valued, especially in grades PR65 and above. The presence of cameo or deep cameo contrast on proof specimens can significantly increase their value.
As with many coins of this era, authenticity is a concern, particularly for high-grade and proof examples. Certification by reputable grading services can add confidence and value to these coins.
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