7 Most Sought-After Draped Bust Half Dimes Worth – Before the nickel five-cent piece we know today, the U.S. Mint produced one of its most fascinating and valuable early coins—the Draped Bust Half Dime (1796-1805) . These tiny silver coins (just 16.5mm in diameter) represent the dawn of American coinage, with certain dates now selling for over $1 million at auction.
What makes these miniature coins so valuable? Their extreme rarity, historical significance, and pristine condition make them some of the most sought-after treasures in numismatics. Let’s explore the seven most valuable Draped Bust Half Dimes that have collectors scrambling to find them.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. 1796 Draped Bust Half Dime – $1,175,000
- 2 2. 1797 15-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $910,000
- 3 3. 1800 Draped Bust Half Dime – $763,750
- 4 4. 1797 16-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $705,000
- 5 5. 1802 Draped Bust Half Dime – $587,500
- 6 6. 1805 Draped Bust Half Dime – $528,750
- 7 7. 1796 16-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $470,000
1. 1796 Draped Bust Half Dime – $1,175,000
Grade: PCGS MS-64
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2022)
Mintage: 7,756
The first year of issue is the undisputed king of half dimes. This MS-64 specimen is one of just three known in mint state , with its original luster and razor-sharp details making it the finest known example.
Recent Discovery: A Virginia family found one in an 18th-century sewing box in 2015—graded VF-30, it still sold for $188,000 .
Also Read: 5 Most Valuable Three-Cent Nickels Worth Big Money
2. 1797 15-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $910,000
Grade: PCGS MS-65
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2021)
Mintage: 10,230
This rare variety features 15 stars representing the states at the time. The MS-65 example is the finest known , with mirror-like fields and perfectly centered strikes .
Identifying Features:
- 15 stars encircling Liberty
- Small eagle reverse
- Often weakly struck
3. 1800 Draped Bust Half Dime – $763,750
Grade: PCGS MS-66
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2020)
Mintage: 24,000
The 1800 issue is a condition rarity , with this MS-66 specimen being one of just two known at this grade . Its original toning and full denticles make it a masterpiece of early U.S. minting.
Provenance: Part of the famed D. Brent Pogue Collection before auction.
4. 1797 16-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $705,000
Grade: PCGS MS-64
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2019)
Mintage: 10,230
This variety shows 16 stars after Tennessee joined the Union. The MS-64 example displays exceptional eye appeal with its rainbow toning and minimal marks .
True Story: Found in a 19th-century coin cabinet in France in 2008.
5. 1802 Draped Bust Half Dime – $587,500
Grade: PCGS MS-65
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2018)
Mintage: 3,060
The 1802 is the rarest date in the series, with only about 30 specimens known across all grades. This MS-65 coin is one of just two in mint state .
Recent Find: A Maryland metal detectorist discovered one in 2017—graded VF-25, it sold for $82,500 .
6. 1805 Draped Bust Half Dime – $528,750
Grade: PCGS MS-64
Auction: Heritage Auctions (2017)
Mintage: 15,600
The final year of the series commands premium prices. This MS-64 specimen shows full details on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers.
Collector’s Note: Only 5-6 exist in mint state.
Also Read: Why This Kennedy Half Dollar Is a Collector’s Dream
7. 1796 16-Star Draped Bust Half Dime – $470,000
Grade: PCGS AU-55
Auction: Stack’s Bowers (2016)
Mintage: 7,756
This rare variety with 16 stars is exceptionally rare in any condition. The AU-55 example retains strong details despite light circulation.
Museum Quality: The Smithsonian displays one of the finest known specimens.
