Even though 50-cent coins are frequently disregarded in regular transactions, they can be rather valuable if they are part of a rare series or have distinctive characteristics.
Depending on their condition and minting features, half dollars, such as the Walking Liberty and Seated Liberty coins, can bring up to $27,500 or more at auction. Let’s examine which 50-cent coins have the potential to be quite expensive as well as their unique qualities.
Valuable 50-Cent Coins to Look For
1. 1946-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
- Mint Location: Denver
- Key Feature: This half-dollar, which was minted in the years following World War II, is prized for being rare and in excellent shape.
- Value: This coin may not be worth much if it’s not in great condition, but if it’s in really good condition, it can sell for up to $27,500.
2. Walking Liberty Half Dollar, 1916
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Key Feature: Just 264,000 Walking Liberty coins were produced in this inaugural year of the series, making it one of the most sought-after coins ever.
- Value: A coin in good condition may be valued between $20,000 and $25,000.
3. 1873-No Arrows CC Seated Liberty Half Dollar
- Mint Location: Carson City
- Key Feature: The 1873 Seated Liberty Half Dollar Without Arrows is a rare coin produced in extremely small quantities.
- Value: These coins have the potential to be worth up to $41,423, depending on their condition.
4. 1892 Barber Half Dollar, Micro S
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Key Feature: These coins are made in few numbers and are called the “Micro S” variety because of their very small mint marks.
- Value: If this coin is in perfect condition, it may fetch as much as $19,975.
5. Draped Bust Half Dollar (1796)
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Key Feature: The 1796 Draped Bust half dollar, one of the first half dollars in American history, is incredibly rare—just 3,918 coins were made.
- Value: Depending on the quantity and quality of stars on the obverse, these coins may be worth between $36,500 and $39,500.
6. Kennedy Bicentennial Half Dollar (Error Coin) 1976
- Mint Location: Various
- Key Feature: Although millions of Bicentennial half were produced, flawed coins with defects like double dies or absent details can fetch much more money than their face value.
- Value: Error coins can be sold for $1,000 to $2,500, depending on their kind and condition.
How to Identify a Rare 50-Cent Half Dollar Coins
If you have a 50-cent coin that could be valuable, here’s how you can check:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark: Important dates include 1916, 1892, 1873, 1946, etc. Mint marks such as “D,” “S,” or “CC” denote restricted production runs.
- Condition Matters: Uncirculated or minted coins (grades MS-65 to MS-68) are significantly more valuable than circulating coins.
- Look for errors: Examine the item for obvious minting faults, such as overdates, double strikes, or missing design components. These mistakes may raise the coin’s value dramatically.
Most 50-cent coins are only worth their face value, but some rare and well-graded examples can fetch as much as $27,500 or more. For collectors, these half dollars, whether rare minting errors or coins from limited runs—are extremely valuable.
For an appropriate appraisal, you might consider seeing a professional numismatist if you think you have a valuable 50-cent coin.