1. 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent – First of Its Kind
The 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent marked the beginning of the final design era for the U.S. half cent coin. With a total mintage of just over 39,000, this issue is rare in all conditions. The Braided Hair design, featuring Liberty with a detailed bun and braided hair on the obverse, is widely regarded as one of the most aesthetically refined in early American coinage.
What makes the 1849 issue particularly sought after is its transitionary nature. It was the first of its series, struck after a nearly decade-long hiatus of half cent production. Numismatists value it not only for its scarcity but also for its sharp, clean design. In high-grade condition, the 1849 Braided Hair Half Cent can easily command $2,000 to $5,000, and proofs (of which only a handful exist) have sold for over $30,000.
Collectors hunt this coin as the inaugural piece in the short Braided Hair series, making it a centerpiece in type collections and early U.S. copper coin portfolios.
2. 1850 Braided Hair Half Cent – Proofs Only
The 1850 edition of the Braided Hair Half Cent is a numismatic curiosity. Although officially dated, no circulation strikes were produced. Instead, the entire known mintage consists of proof coins only—estimated between 20 and 30 examples. This makes it one of the most desirable half cents for serious collectors.
Because of its extreme rarity and unique status, the 1850 Braided Hair Half Cent routinely sells for $25,000 to $50,000, depending on grade and strike quality. Its existence points to the U.S. Mint’s dwindling focus on the denomination and growing emphasis on collector issues rather than practical currency. This coin is often sought after not only for its scarcity but also for its historical implication as one of the last “functionally obsolete” coins minted.
For collectors who specialize in proofs or 19th-century copper, this issue is a true white whale.
3. 1852 Braided Hair Half Cent – The Business Strike Rarity
While the 1852 Braided Hair Half Cent saw a reported mintage of 55,000, the majority of these were never released into circulation. They remained in storage and were later melted down, leaving far fewer surviving examples than the mintage numbers suggest.
Finding a true business strike 1852 coin in high condition is incredibly difficult. Most existing pieces show signs of wear, and uncirculated versions are particularly scarce. In Mint State (MS-63 and up), this coin can command $3,000 to $6,000, and specimens with eye appeal or reddish-brown luster can push the price even higher.
This coin holds a unique spot in the series—it’s not just rare, it’s a ghost of what could’ve been a common issue.
4. 1853 Braided Hair Half Cent – A Collector’s Favorite
With a mintage of 129,694, the 1853 Braided Hair Half Cent is not the rarest numerically, but it’s incredibly popular among collectors due to its availability in attractive conditions and its rich chocolate-brown patina that older copper coins often display.
This issue is particularly known for having well-struck examples, which makes it a favorite for type collectors who want a high-grade representative of the Braided Hair design. In MS-65 condition, prices often range between $2,000 and $4,000, with deep red or red-brown pieces fetching even more.
Collectors love the 1853 for its balance of affordability, beauty, and availability—making it a staple in many Braided Hair collections.
5. 1854 Braided Hair Half Cent – A Sleeper Rarity
The 1854 issue had a relatively low mintage of 55,358, and much like the 1852 edition, a large portion was never released into circulation. Many were melted or lost over time, and fewer high-quality examples exist than collectors would like.
Although not the flashiest date, the 1854 has become a “sleeper rarity”—meaning it’s more scarce than commonly perceived. This has led to a quiet but steady increase in its value over the last decade. Choice Mint State coins typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, while proofs—of which only 30-40 are believed to exist—can exceed $20,000 at auction.
As awareness of this coin’s rarity continues to grow, its demand is expected to climb even higher.
6. 1855 Upright 5 vs. Slanted 5 Varieties
The 1855 Braided Hair Half Cent is fascinating due to its two distinct numeral varieties: the “Upright 5” and the “Slanted 5.” The Slanted 5 is more common, while the Upright 5 variety is significantly rarer and highly collectible. Both variants are sought after, but it’s the Upright 5 that commands the biggest premiums.
Collectors love these kinds of die variations because they offer something extra for those who enjoy the hunt. An Upright 5 in Mint State can sell for $4,000 to $7,000, while a Proof example can reach $15,000 or more. Even circulated versions hold strong value due to their desirability.
These varieties offer a unique opportunity for collectors to add diversity within a single year of issue, enhancing the depth of any copper collection.
7. 1857 Braided Hair Half Cent – The End of an Era
The 1857 Braided Hair Half Cent holds the distinction of being the last half cent ever minted by the United States. With a mintage of 35,180, it was the swan song for a denomination that had become economically obsolete. As a result, this coin is cherished not just for its rarity but also for its historical significance.
High-grade examples are highly sought after and can fetch $3,000 to $6,000 depending on condition. Proofs are exceptionally rare and highly desirable, sometimes exceeding $25,000 in auctions. It’s the final chapter of a long, fascinating series that began in 1793.
Collectors view this coin as a must-have for completing a U.S. copper coin collection or marking the close of an iconic American coinage lineage.
FAQs
Q1: What is a Braided Hair Half Cent?
The Braided Hair Half Cent was minted from 1849 to 1857 and is the last design in the half cent series. It features Liberty with braided hair and is made from copper.
Q2: Are all Braided Hair Half Cents rare?
Yes, due to low mintages and limited surviving examples, especially in high grades or proof conditions. Some, like the 1850, exist only as proofs.
Q3: How can I tell if my half cent is valuable?
Key indicators include date, condition, and rarity. Consult a coin expert or send the coin for professional grading from PCGS or NGC.
Q4: Where can I sell rare Braided Hair Half Cents?
Your best options include heritage auctions, coin shows, reputable dealers, and online platforms like Stack’s Bowers. Graded coins tend to fetch the highest prices.
Conclusion
The Braided Hair Half Cent series may be small in scope, but it’s massive in collector appeal. From the scarce 1850 proof to the historically significant 1857 final issue, these coins offer rich design, rarity, and fascinating backstories. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just beginning your collection, tracking down these elusive half cents can be both a thrilling and rewarding adventure. Keep your eyes open—because holding one of these coins might mean you’re holding a piece of early American monetary history worth thousands.