9 Most Valuable Half Dollars in History

Most Valuable Half Dollars in History: Half dollars aren’t used much anymore, but they’re super special to people who collect coins and love history. These coins often have beautiful designs and big stories from the past, making them treasures for collectors. Some half dollars are worth way more than 50 cents—think thousands or even millions of dollars! In this article, we’ll check out the nine most valuable half dollars ever and find out why they’re so rare and pricey.

1. 1804 Draped Bust Half Dollar

The 1804 Draped Bust Half Dollar is one of the rarest and most famous coins in America. Funny thing is, they weren’t really made in 1804—they were made later for special gift sets. Only a few exist today, which makes them super valuable. In 2023, one sold for over $5 million at an auction! It’s so hard to find and important in coin history that it’s the top half dollar ever.

Also Read: Top 10 Dimes That Could Make You Rich

2. 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollar (High Relief)

The 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollar stands out because it has a high-relief design, meaning the picture pops out more. They only did this fancy look for one year, showing Lady Liberty walking toward the sunrise. A really nice one, graded MS-67, sold for $384,000 in 2021. Its cool design and being so rare make collectors love it.

3. 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar

The 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar was the first half dollar made at the New Orleans Mint. They only made 17,000 of them, so it’s pretty scarce. A super good one, graded MS-66, sold for $336,000 in 2020. It’s special because it’s from the South and not many are left.

4. 1892-S Barber Half Dollar

The 1892-S Barber Half Dollar came from San Francisco, and they made 188,000 coins. Not many stayed in great shape, so it’s hard to find a nice one. A top one, graded MS-66, sold for $252,000 in 2022. It’s rare and has the classic Barber look, making it a big deal for collectors.

5. 1839-O Capped Bust Half Dollar

The 1839-O Capped Bust Half Dollar is another gem from New Orleans, with 178,970 made. Lots got worn out from use, so finding a perfect one is tough. In 2021, an MS-66 one sold for $228,000. It’s tied to the old South and looks amazing, so it’s worth a lot.

6. 1855-S Seated Liberty Half Dollar

The 1855-S Seated Liberty Half Dollar was one of the first from San Francisco, with just 129,950 made. Less than 100 are thought to be around now, making it super rare. A nice one, graded MS-65, sold for $216,000 in 2023. It’s from the West and hard to find, which makes it exciting.

7. 1866-S No Motto Seated Liberty Half Dollar

The 1866-S No Motto Seated Liberty Half Dollar doesn’t have “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the back. This happened during a change when they started adding that phrase to coins. A great one, graded MS-66, sold for $204,000 in 2021. It’s important in history and rare, so collectors really want it.

Also Read: 10 Rarest Quarters That Could Make You Rich

8. 1919 Standing Liberty Half Dollar (Type 1)

The 1919 Standing Liberty Half Dollar (Type 1) shows Lady Liberty with an olive branch and shield. It’s not super rare if it’s worn, but a perfect one is hard to get. A shiny MS-67 one sold for $192,000 in 2022. Its awesome design and great condition make it valuable.

9. 1870-CC Seated Liberty Half Dollar

The 1870-CC Seated Liberty Half Dollar came from Carson City, and only 54,617 were made. Less than 20 are known to exist today, so it’s a real treasure. A good one, graded MS-64, sold for $180,000 in 2023. It’s from the Wild West and super rare, which makes it a favorite.

Why These Half Dollars Are Worth So Much

These half dollars cost a lot because:

• Rarity: Not many were made, or not many are left, so collectors fight over them.
• Condition: Ones that look brand new are worth way more than scratched-up ones.
• History: They’re from big times in America, which adds to their story.
• Design: Pretty looks like Walking Liberty or Seated Liberty make people love them.

Could You Find a Rich Half Dollar?

It’s not super likely to find one of these in your change today, but it could happen! Smart collectors look through coin rolls, old sales, or auctions for treasures. If you see a half dollar that’s old, has weird marks, or looks perfect, take it to an expert—it might be worth tons!

Final Thoughts

These nine most valuable half dollars show how awesome and pricey coins can be. From the famous 1804 Draped Bust Half Dollar to the cool 1921 Walking Liberty, each one has its own tale and shows America’s coin past. Whether you’re hunting them or just like the idea, these half dollars turn regular coins into something huge.