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1847

Half Dimes · Seated Liberty Half Dimes · 1837–1873
Regular
Weight1.34 g
Diameter15.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 1,274,000
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition90% Silver, 10% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-1066

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About this coinHistory

Philadelphia produced 1,274,000 half dimes in 1847, a dramatic recovery from the 1846 key-date mintage. Production returned to normal levels after the mysterious one-year drop, and the 1847 is once again a common date available in circulated grades without difficulty. The Mexican-American War was in its second year, and American forces were moving toward Mexico City. The half dime circulated through the war years, handling small-change transactions in the expanding American economy.

Surviving 1847 half dimes are plentiful. The design continues unchanged, the strike quality is generally good, and Uncirculated examples exist in meaningful numbers. A well-preserved 1847 with attractive toning represents the date well at a moderate price. For collectors assembling a complete date set, the 1847 provides relief after the challenge of the 1846 key.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $22 $25
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $26 $30
F-12 Fine (F) $29 $34
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $61 $71
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $81 $94
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $122 $141
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $184 $210
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $425 $450
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1847 Seated Liberty Half Dime worth?
In Good condition it runs about $22–$25, rising to roughly $184–$210 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1847 Seated Liberty Half Dimes were minted?
1,274,000 were struck.
What is a 1847 Seated Liberty Half Dime made of?
90% Silver, 10% Copper, weighing 1.34 g.
What is the melt value of a 1847 Seated Liberty Half Dime?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1847 Seated Liberty Half Dime a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.