What is the value of an 1897 US half dollar?

Answer 1

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

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 04/2010:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $13

Moderately worn - $49

Slightly worn - $96

Almost no wear - $360

Uncirculated - $540 to $14,950 depending on quality

"O" mint mark (New Orleans):

Very worn condition - $156

Moderately worn - $528

Slightly worn - $780

Almost no wear - $1,488

Uncirculated - $1,980 to $39,650

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn condition - $144

Moderately worn - $390

Slightly worn - $570

Almost no wear - $1,188

Uncirculated - $1,800 to $35,750