The 1861 Seated Liberty half dollars have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.
Specifications
Type: Seated Liberty Half Dollar
Year: 1861
Face Value: $0.50
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .3599 oz.
Total Weight: 12.44 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $8.28
The US minted the 1861 half dollar with no mint mark and also the 1861 O half dollar and 1861 S half dollar. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin below the eagle.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 1861 | Philadelphia | 2,887,400 |
| 1861 O | New Orleans | 2,532,633 |
| 1861 S | San Francisco | 939,500 |
Value
This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $8.28 as of September 26, 2023. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $23.02 per ounce.
The 1861 half dollar with no mint mark is worth around $55 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $145. In extremely fine condition the value is around $250. In uncirculated condition the price is around $600 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $1,250.
The 1861 O half dollar is worth around $85 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $225. In extremely fine condition the value is around $500. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1,500 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $3,500.
The 1861 S half dollar is worth around $65 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $200. In extremely fine condition the value is around $450. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1,200 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $3,250.
Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $1,600 in PR 63 condition. There were 1,000 proof coins minted.
Cracked Obverse Variety
There is one notable variety for the 1845 O half dollar. On the obverse side of the coin there is a die crack that extends from the bridge of Liberty's nose to the rim of the coin. See the image below for reference.
The 1861 O half dollar with the cracked obverse is worth around $375 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $1,500. In extremely fine condition the value is around $3,750. In uncirculated condition the price is around $15,000 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $25,000.
Grading System
Good- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is not readable. The letters and the date are readable.
Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is mostly sharp.
Extremely fine- The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is completely sharp. The edges on the scroll are distinct.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also: