The 1840 Seated Liberty half dimes have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these silver coins.
Specifications
Type: Seated Liberty Half Dime
Year: 1840
Face Value: $0.05
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .0388 oz.
Total Weight: 1.34 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $1.17
The US minted the 1840 half dime with no mint mark and no drapery, the 1840 half dime with no mint mark and drapery, the 1840 O half dime with no drapery, and also the 1840 O half dime with drapery. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin above the bow.
Liberty's drapery, when present, can be seen under her left arm. See the image below for reference.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 1840, No Drapery | Philadelphia | 1,034,000 |
| 1840, Drapery | Philadelphia | 310,085 |
| 1840 O, No Drapery | New Orleans | 695,000 |
| 1840 O, Drapery | New Orleans | 240,000 |
Value
This coin in circulated condition will be worth more than its weight in silver. But for reference, the silver melt value for this coin is $1.17. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $30.22 per ounce.
The 1840 half dime with no mint mark and no drapery is worth around $35 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $55. In extremely fine condition the value is around $105. In uncirculated condition the price is around $325 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $550.
The 1840 half dime with no mint mark and drapery is worth around $55 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $150. In extremely fine condition the value is around $250. In uncirculated condition the price is around $500 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $1,000.
The 1840 O half dime with no drapery is worth around $115 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $300. In extremely fine condition the value is around $600. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1,850 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $5,500.
The 1840 O half dime with drapery is worth around $125 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $400. In extremely fine condition the value is around $850. In uncirculated condition the price is around $7,000 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $22,000.
Grading System
Good- The date and letters are readable. The word "LIBERTY" on the shield is smooth.
Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" is even and strong.
Extremely fine- Both the word "LIBERTY" and the scroll have distinct edges.
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.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also: