8 Most Rare Half Dollars
Mar 5th 2024
8 Most Rare Half Dollars Worth Money
Half dollar coins are typically quite popular among coin collectors because it’s not the kind of coinage you see every day. Sometimes referred to as the half for short or a 50-cent piece, they almost always captivate your attention with their uniqueness. The rarity of these large silver coins can vary based on factors such as date, mint mark, and mintage numbers. As fun as they are to collect, you should be aware of the most rare half dollars worth money to know if you come across one.
What Are the 8 Rarest Half Dollars?
The U.S. Mint made the first half dollar in 1794. As you can imagine, several of the raresthalf dollars were made in those first years of minting.
Over the years, there have been four key designs of half dollar coins: Flowing Hair Liberty, Walking Liberty, Benjamin Franklin, and the Kennedy Half Dollar. Since the early 2000s, half dollars have been primarily minted for annual mint sets and other numismatic products.
1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar
The 1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar is a very rare coin. It was released in 1797, with an estimated mintage of only 3,918 pieces.
Many of these coins were lost or destroyed over the years. The exact number of surviving examples is unknown, but it is believed there are only a few hundred pieces still in existence today.
The coin’s design features the portrait of Liberty facing to the right on the obverse (front) and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse. It was designed by the chief engraver at the time, Robert Scot.
According to the NGC Price Guide, one of these rare coins in circulated condition is worth somewhere between $52,500 and $250,000. A 1797 half dollar in pristine uncirculated condition could sell for as much as $1,820,000 on the open market.
1796 16-Star Draped Bust Coin
The 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar is one of the rarest United States silver coins. Even the lowest grade of these early coins is expensive.
Two varieties were produced in 1796, one with 15 stars and one with 16 stars. The 16-star variety is slightly more scarce than the 15-star coinage.
The reasoning for two design types may never be known with certainty, but most presume the extra star was added to the obverse after Tennessee was added as the 16th state in June of 1796.
According to NGC, a 1796 16-Stars Draped Bust half dollar in circulated condition is worth somewhere between $32,500 and $250,000. A pristine, uncirculated coin could sell for as much as 1 million on the open market.
1838-O Capped Bust U.S. Coin
Minted at the New Orleans Mint branch the first year it opened, the 1838-O Capped Bust half dollar is considered one of the rarest of its kind. There are less than 12 of these rare coins known to exist, and only 20 Proofs were ever minted.
Reportedly, only dimes and half dimes were produced at the New Orleans Mint in 1838. The 1838-O half dollars would have actually been minted in early 1939, which is why there are so few.
Lady Liberty is facing left on the obverse with 13 stars arranged around the coin’s edge. The reverse depicts an eagle with wings spread out and a shield with stars and stripes covering the chest. These valuable coins are worth several hundred thousand dollars in any type of condition.
1796 15-Star Draped Bust Half Dollar Coin
U.S. half dollars dated 1796 are very limited and most likely coined the following year since there were no mint delivery warrants for half dollar coins in 1796. The exact month and mintage number vary among numismatists, but it almost certainly wasn’t 1796.
A new portrait of Liberty and a revised interpretation of the eagle was released in 1795. The engraver decided to add a small fraction (½) just below the wreath, which remained unique to half dollar coins minted from 1796-1797.
The NGC Price Guide states that a 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollarsilver coin in circulated condition is valued between $31,000 and $240,000. However, a 1796 15-Star Draped Bust Half Dollar in pristine, uncirculated condition could sell for as much as $480,000 on the open market.
1817 Capped Bust Half Dollar
U.S. half dollars dated 1817 are plentiful as normal coinage resumed after a catastrophic fire at the Philadelphia Mint the previous year. The Mint produced over 1.2 million half dollars that year.
In that year, 13 different die varieties were identified by researchers. Most notably, these are two extremely rare overdates (1817/3 and 1817/4): one with a die chip or “punctured date” and the other a more popular “single-leaf” variety.
The large mintage number of these rare half dollars contributes to a wide range in coin values, usually around $75 to $1,850. PCGS reported an auction record of $35,250 for a spectacular MS66 1817 half dollar in September of 2022.
1919 Denver Mint Walking Liberty
Walking Liberty Half Dollars, sometimes called “Walkers,” are special because it was the first time in half dollar history that the design depicted Liberty’s entire body.
Liberty is portrayed as a Grecian Goddess walking toward the sun with one arm reaching out in invitation and the other holding olive branches. This new design was meant to symbolize the dawn of a new day, just one year after World War I ended.
The 1919 Denver Mint Walking Liberty had relatively low mintage numbers compared to other Mint branches. It’s also the most poorly struck issue in this popular series.
According to the NGC Price Guide, a Walking Liberty Half Dollar from 1919 in circulated condition is valued somewhere in the range of $27 to $5,575. A 1919 D Half Dollar is worth a little more in any condition than other branch issues, but they’re very rare in high grades.
Also learn about 1919 D Wheat Penny.
1878-S Seated LibertyHalf Dollar
The extremely low mintage of the 1878-S Seated LibertyHalf Dollar has resulted in it being a very rare coin in all grades. Due to the redundancy of fractional silver coins in circulation as well as the passage of the Bland-Allison Act in 1878, the production of silver half dollars would be limited to the Philadelphia Mint through 1891.
On the Seated LibertyHalf Dollar design Lady Liberty is seated on a rock, with a shield in her left hand and a pole with a Liberty cap on top in her right hand. The eagle on the reverse is holding an olive branch with one talon and an arrow with the other to symbolize the country’s readiness for war and desire for peace.
These rare silver coins can be worth anywhere between $27,000 and $110,000 in circulated condition, according to the NGC Price Guide.
1921-S Walking Liberty
1921 is considered a key date in the Walking Liberty half dollar series. As the recession ended in July of 1921, it was the San Francisco Mint alone that sporadically produced additional half dollars for circulation during the 1920s.
1921-S Walkers are very rare in grades Extremely Fine and higher. Mint State pieces are quite low, and gems are exceedingly rare. Their value can span a large range from about $55 to $18,000 in circulated condition, according to the NGC Price Guide.
Rare Half Dollars To Add to Your Coin Collection
Whether you’re searching for historical commemorative coins, stunning proof sets, or a Kennedy Half Dollar, Bullion Shark is the rare coin dealer you can rely on.
Take a quick look at our extensive inventory of classic rare coins today. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our numismatic experts!
Source:
Half Dollars | PCGS CoinFacts
NGC Coin Price Guide and Values | NGC
Capped Bust Half Dollar (1807-1839) Values - Price Guide | PCGS
Half Dollar | U.S. Mint
FAQ
What makes a half dollar coin rare and valuable?
A half dollar becomes rare and valuable due to its low mintage numbers, historical significance, condition, and unique features such as errors or specific mint marks. Coins produced in limited quantities or during significant historical periods are especially prized. The coin's condition, ranging from circulated to pristine uncirculated, significantly impacts its value. Errors and variations, like misprints or unique design features, can also make a half dollar more desirable to collectors.
How can I determine the value of a rare half dollar?
To determine the value of a rare half dollar, consult reputable price guides from organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). Additionally, the coin's condition, rarity, and demand in the market play critical roles in its valuation. For a precise assessment, consider having the coin professionally graded by a recognized grading service, which will evaluate its authenticity, condition, and historical significance.
What are the key features to look for in a rare half dollar?
Key features to look for in a rare half dollar include the mint mark, indicating where the coin was produced; the date of mintage, especially those from the early years of production; and specific design variations or errors. Additionally, the overall condition of the coin, including its luster, sharpness of detail, and absence of wear, is crucial. Coins with original patina and minimal damage are typically more valuable.
Which half dollar coins are considered the rarest and most valuable?
Among the rarest and most valuable half dollar coins are the 1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar, the 1796 16-Star Draped Bust Coin, the 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar, the 1796 15-Star Draped Bust Half Dollar Coin, the 1817 Capped Bust Half Dollar with rare overdates, the 1919 Denver Mint Walking Liberty, and the 1878-S Seated Liberty Half Dollar. These coins are prized for their low mintage, historical significance, and exceptional conditions in some cases.
How does the grading system work for half dollars?
The grading system for half dollars ranges from Poor (P), where the coin is barely identifiable, to Perfect Mint State (MS-70) for uncirculated coins with no visible imperfections. Coins are evaluated based on their luster, strike, and the presence of wear or damage. Professional grading services use this scale to provide a standardized assessment of a coin's condition, which helps determine its market value.
Where can I sell or buy rare half dollars?
Rare half dollars can be bought or sold through reputable coin dealers, numismatic auctions, and online platforms that specialize in rare coins. Before making a transaction, ensure the dealer is reputable and offers authentication and grading services. Auction houses and numismatic shows are also excellent venues for buying or selling rare coins, offering access to a wide range of collectors and investors.
Can the historical significance of a half dollar affect its value?
Yes, the historical significance of a half dollar can greatly affect its value. Coins minted during pivotal moments in history or representing key milestones in the U.S. Mint's production are often more sought after. Their connection to significant events or periods can add to their rarity and desirability among collectors, thus enhancing their value.
How do the historical contexts and events during the time of mintage influence the rarity and value of the half dollars?
The rarity and value of half dollar coins are significantly influenced by historical contexts and events occurring during their mintage. Economic fluctuations, wars, and legislative acts directly impact the production volumes, circulation, and preservation of these coins. For example, wars often lead to increased metal demand for armament production, reducing the availability of precious metals like silver for coinage. Legislative changes, such as the Coinage Act, can alter the composition and production rates of coins. Furthermore, economic conditions, including recessions and booms, affect the minting and circulation patterns of coins, as seen with the 1921-S Walking Liberty Half Dollar, which was produced sporadically during the 1920s as the economy recovered from a recession.
What specific factors contribute to the wide range in values for coins of the same type and year, such as the 1919 Denver Mint Walking Liberty, which can range from $27 to $5,575?
The wide range in values of coins of the same type and year is influenced by several factors, including the coin's condition, mint errors, and its provenance or history of ownership. The condition of a coin, often evaluated in terms of its wear, luster, and visibility of details, plays a crucial role in determining its value. Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition command higher prices than those in circulated condition. Mint errors, such as double strikes or misalignments, can also add to a coin's rarity and appeal, thereby increasing its value. Additionally, the provenance of a coin, or its history of ownership, can enhance its desirability, especially if it was previously part of a notable collection.
How does the process of grading and authenticating these rare half dollars work, and who determines their market value?
The process of grading and authenticating rare half dollars is carried out by professional grading services, such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). These organizations assess a coin's condition, verifying its authenticity and assigning a grade based on a standardized scale. This grading scale ranges from Poor (P) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70) for uncirculated coins, with specific criteria for each grade level. The market value of these coins is determined by factors such as rarity, demand, condition, and historical significance, with prices often established through auction results, dealer listings, and pricing guides published by grading services. Collectors and investors rely on these grades and valuations to make informed decisions when buying or selling rare coins.