7 Draped Bust Half Cent Coins – The Draped Bust Half Cent (1800-1808) is one of the most fascinating early U.S. coins, representing a pivotal era in American numismatics. Designed by Robert Scot, these small copper coins feature Liberty with draped bust on the obverse and a laurel wreath or reverse variations depending on the year. With low mintages and high historical significance, top-condition Draped Bust Half Cents have sold for six and even seven figures at auction.
Below, we explore seven of the most valuable Draped Bust Half Cents ever sold, detailing their rarity, condition, and the jaw-dropping prices they achieved.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. 1802 Draped Bust Half Cent – $1.15 Million
- 2 2. 1804 Draped Bust Half Cent – $632,500
- 3 3. 1803 Draped Bust Half Cent – $528,750
- 4 4. 1806 Draped Bust Half Cent – $402,500
- 5 5. 1805 Draped Bust Half Cent – $345,000
- 6 6. 1800 Draped Bust Half Cent – $299,000
- 7 7. 1808 Draped Bust Half Cent – $258,500
- 8 Why Are Draped Bust Half Cents So Valuable?
1. 1802 Draped Bust Half Cent – $1.15 Million
Grade: PCGS MS-65 (BN)
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2015)
This 1802 Half Cent is one of the finest known examples, with only a handful surviving in mint state. Its rich brown surfaces, sharp details, and exceptional eye appeal made it a superstar at auction, selling for a staggering $1.15 million—one of the highest prices ever paid for a U.S. copper coin.
2. 1804 Draped Bust Half Cent – $632,500
Grade: PCGS MS-66 (RB)
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2018)
The 1804 Half Cent is a major rarity, with only 1,055 originally minted. This Red-Brown (RB) specimen is among the best-preserved, boasting full original color, strong strike, and minimal marks. Its record-breaking sale solidified its place in numismatic history.
3. 1803 Draped Bust Half Cent – $528,750
Grade: PCGS MS-65 (BN)
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2019)
This 1803 Half Cent is a condition rarity, with very few surviving in Mint State. Its deep chocolate-brown patina, full details, and outstanding preservation justified its half-million-dollar price tag.
4. 1806 Draped Bust Half Cent – $402,500
Grade: PCGS MS-65 (RB)
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2020)
The 1806 Half Cent is extremely rare in high grades, and this Red-Brown beauty is one of the finest. Its vibrant toning, sharp strike, and pristine surfaces made it a coveted prize for deep-pocketed collectors.
5. 1805 Draped Bust Half Cent – $345,000
Grade: PCGS MS-64 (BN)
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2016)
This 1805 Half Cent is a key date, with only a few known in Mint State. Its original surfaces, bold details, and attractive brown toning helped it achieve a record price for the date.
6. 1800 Draped Bust Half Cent – $299,000
Grade: PCGS MS-64 (BN)
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2017)
The 1800 Half Cent is the first year of the Draped Bust type, making it highly desirable. This well-preserved example features strong design elements and rich color, earning it a near-$300K sale.
7. 1808 Draped Bust Half Cent – $258,500
Grade: PCGS MS-64 (BN)
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2021)
The 1808 Half Cent is the final year of the series, adding to its collectibility. This high-grade example, with excellent eye appeal and minimal wear, sold for a quarter-million dollars, proving the enduring demand for early U.S. copper coins.
Why Are Draped Bust Half Cents So Valuable?
- Extremely Low Mintage – Some years had fewer than 2,000 coins struck.
- Survival Rarity – Most were worn out or melted; few exist in high grades.
- Historical Significance – Among the earliest U.S. copper coins.
- Condition Rarity – Mint State examples are exceptionally scarce.
The Draped Bust Half Cent is a cornerstone of early American coinage, with top specimens selling for six and seven figures. Whether you’re a serious collector or a history enthusiast, these coins represent a priceless piece of U.S. heritage.
