A rare 50-cent coin from 1819 recently sold online for an impressive $2,248. This surprising sale highlights the potential hidden value of old coins you might have at home.
Minted in Philadelphia and designed by John Reich, this half dollar is part of the “Capped Bust” coinage series. It features Lady Liberty on the front and an eagle on the reverse. What makes this coin exceptionally valuable is its 1819/8 overdate error.
Two Variants of the 1819 Overdate Coin
There are two distinct varieties of the 1819/8 overdate half dollar:
- Large 9: This version has a less noticeable overdate, where the lower loop and ball of the “9” appear joined.
- Small 9: In contrast, the overdate is much clearer, with visible remnants of the underlying “8.”
This detail, described by experts like Ron Gruth of the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), makes it easier for collectors to identify these coins.
Value Beyond Its Face
The coin’s composition also contributes to its value, as it contains silver. The recently sold coin accumulated 28 bids before reaching the final price of $2,248.50—an astonishing 449,600% increase over its original 50-cent value.
For coins in average condition, the USA Coin Book estimates their value at $131. However, coins in Uncirculated (MS+) Mint Condition can fetch prices upwards of $3,888 or more.
How to Spot Valuable Coins
Collectors often look for coins with:
- Errors or overdates
- Low mintages
- Good condition or grading
If you suspect you own a valuable coin, research its potential worth by:
- Searching the coin’s full name on platforms like eBay.
- Filtering for “sold” listings and sorting by the highest value to gauge market prices.
You can sell your coin through platforms like eBay or specialist sites such as Coinappraiser or USA Coin Book.
Tips for Selling Coins Online
When selling coins online, keep these points in mind:
- Set a minimum price to avoid selling below the coin’s intrinsic value.
- Be cautious of unpaid bids on auction platforms. While eBay requires bidders to commit to purchases, enforcing these rules can be difficult.
- Understand that factors like grade, condition, and collector demand significantly impact the value of antique coins.
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