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1868

Half Dimes · Seated Liberty Half Dimes · 1837–1873
Semi-key
Weight1.24 g
Diameter15.5 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 89,600
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition90% Silver, 10% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-1132

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About this coinHistory

Mintage for 1868 Philadelphia reached 88,600 half dimes, a significant increase over the previous Civil War-era lows but still modest by general Seated Liberty standards. The semi-key status reflects the continuing scarcity compared to normal production levels. Silver coinage was beginning to return to circulation in the East, and the Mint was cautiously increasing half dime production to meet rising demand.

The 1868 is a transitional year between the Civil War keys (1863-1867) and the more normal production of the early 1870s. Surviving examples are available in circulated grades but carry semi-key premiums, particularly in higher grades. Uncirculated coins are scarce and command strong prices.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $46 $53
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $54 $62
F-12 Fine (F) $98 $113
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $148 $170
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $265 $305
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $380 $440
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $540 $620
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $850 $900
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1868 Seated Liberty Half Dime worth?
In Good condition it runs about $46–$53, rising to roughly $540–$620 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1868 Seated Liberty Half Dimes were minted?
89,600 were struck.
What is a 1868 Seated Liberty Half Dime made of?
90% Silver, 10% Copper, weighing 1.24 g.
What is the melt value of a 1868 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 1868 Seated Liberty Half Dime a key date?
It's a semi-key date — scarcer than common issues but more available than the series' key dates.