What is the value of an 1872 US half dime?

Answer 1

Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter. It may be blank or there may be an S

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 03/2011:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $13

Moderately worn - $17

Slightly worn - $21

Almost no wear - $81

Uncirculated - $132 to $1,530 depending on quality

"S" mint mark (San Francisco), above the bow in the wreath:

Very worn - $14

Moderately worn - $18

Slightly worn - $24

Almost no wear - $86

Uncirculated - $144 to $3,580

"S" mint mark, below the bow in the wreath:

Very worn - $13

Moderately worn - $17

Slightly worn - $22

Almost no wear - $79

Uncirculated - $126 to $1,340

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.

AnswerAs with any collectible, a primary consideration in determining its value is its condition (or grade). Novice collectors, with some practice, can become quite accurate in determining grades for circulated coins (G-4 through AU-50). It becomes much more difficult when assigning grades for Uncirculated coins (MS-60 through MS-70) or Proof coins (PF-60 through PF-70) and the assistance of an experienced coin collector or trusted coin dealer should be sought.

Another consideration is whether the coin has a mintmark, indicating where the coin was made: D = Denver O = New Orleans S = San Francisco CC = Carson City

Coins struck in Philadelphia generally do not bear a mintmark. There are other mintmarks, but the above list covers most.

There are many Internet and printed resources in helping determine the appropriate grade for a coin. Whichever resource you choose to use, ensure that they follow the grading guidelines established by the American Numismatic Association (ANA).

Unless you have indicated the mintmark of the coin, the following is a value range for the coin in question, struck in Philadelphia and is taken from the Numismatic News Coin Market Monthly Price Guide for March 2007:

G4 - $14.00 VG8- $16.00 F12- $17.50 VF20- $21.00 XF40- $37.50 AU50- $75.00 MS60- $125.00 MS63- $200.00 MS65- $1200.00

I hope this has answered your question. If not, try phrasing your question differently or providing additional information and I will do my best to answer. Please remember to leave feedback. Thank you. MGirard