1854 Braided Hair Half Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$6,900 MS66 11-07-2006 Stack's
Description
Part of the Braided Hair Half Cents 1840-1857 series, the 1854 Braided Hair Half Cent is a cent from the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of 55,358, this is an extremely rare issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% of production. The obverse features Liberty facing left with braided hair swept up and held by a beaded cord, wearing a headband inscribed LIBERTY and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. Struck during the California Gold Rush era, when vast quantities of western gold transformed the American economy and led to new denominations. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $69 to $612 depending on grade and condition. Struck in copper, weighing 5.44 grams, 23 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #1230.
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