Half dollar coins have been an integral part of American coinage for centuries. These coins, produced in numerous designs and compositions over the years, have garnered significant value due to rarity, historical significance, or unique errors. Below are some of the most valuable half dollar coins sought after by collectors around the world.
1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair half dollar is one of the earliest U.S. half dollars and remains one of the rarest and most valuable. Featuring Lady Liberty with flowing hair and an eagle on the reverse, this coin is a prized piece of early American coinage. With only a few surviving specimens in mint condition, the 1794 Flowing Hair half dollar can command over $75,000 at auction, with some exceptional examples even reaching six figures.
1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar
Struck at the New Orleans Mint, the 1838-O Capped Bust half dollar is a rare find due to its limited production. Only 20 of these coins were originally minted, and only a few remain today. As one of the first coins produced in New Orleans, its historical significance adds to its value. In high-grade condition, it can be worth over $500,000, making it an invaluable piece for serious collectors.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (Accented Hair Variety)
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar was minted to honor the late President John F. Kennedy following his assassination. Although produced in large quantities, the “Accented Hair” variety stands out due to its sharper hairstyle details on the obverse. This variant is highly sought after, with proof specimens selling for up to $5,000.
1919-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The Walking Liberty half dollar series, minted between 1916 and 1947, is widely admired for its design. Among these, the 1919-D coin struck at the Denver Mint is particularly rare due to its low mintage and high attrition rates. A well-preserved example can fetch over $50,000, with pristine versions commanding even higher prices.
1807 Draped Bust Half Dollar
Minted between 1796 and 1807, the Draped Bust half dollar series includes several valuable coins. The 1807 Draped Bust half dollar is especially prized for its elegant design and its place in early U.S. coinage. Depending on its condition, this coin can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to over $50,000.
1955 Franklin Half Dollar (Bugs Bunny Variety)
The Franklin half dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, is known for its distinctive design featuring Benjamin Franklin. Among the series, the 1955 “Bugs Bunny” variety, an error coin that gives Franklin a buck-toothed appearance due to die clashes, is a popular collector’s item. Although not as valuable as rarer coins, a high-grade Bugs Bunny variety can still fetch between $500 and $1,000.
1878-S Seated Liberty Half Dollar
Struck at the San Francisco Mint, the 1878-S Seated Liberty half dollar is one of the rarest in the series, with only 12,000 coins originally minted. Due to its low mintage and scarcity, surviving examples are highly sought after. In excellent condition, this coin can sell for over $50,000, making it a significant find for coin collectors.
These rare and valuable half dollar coins are not only prized for their rarity but also for their historical importance. Whether they are sought after for their design, printing errors, or limited production, these coins continue to captivate collectors and hold substantial value in the market.
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