The 1855 Seated Half Dime can vary significantly in value depending on its specific characteristics, particularly its condition and variety. Here's a breakdown of the factors affecting its value:

Condition:

• The condition of your 1855 Seated Half Dime is the most important factor influencing its value. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC assign a numerical grade (typically on a 70-point scale) reflecting the coin's condition. Higher grades translate to higher values. Here's a general range:
  • Poor (PR): $20 - $30 (Heavily worn, major details obliterated)
  • Fair (FR): $35 - $50 (Significant wear, some details visible)
  • Very Good (VG): $70 - $100 (Moderate wear, most details discernible)
  • Fine (F): $150 - $250 (Circulated, but significant details remain)
  • Very Fine (VF): $300 - $750+ (Lighter wear, well-defined details)
  • Extremely Fine (XF): $750 - $5,000+ (Minimal wear, sharp details)
  • Uncirculated (MS): $5,000+ (Can reach tens of thousands depending on the specific grade within MS)

Variety:

• There are two main varieties of the 1855 Seated Half Dime that can affect value:
  • Arrows at Date (No Arrows): This variety features small arrows flanking the date (1855). These are generally less common and more valuable than the variety without arrows.
  • No Arrows at Date: This variety lacks the arrows near the date.

Mintmark:

• Most 1855 Seated Half Dimes were minted in Philadelphia and won't have a mintmark. However, a rare variety exists with an "O" mintmark beneath the eagle's claw, indicating coinage at the New Orleans mint. This is a valuable collector's item.

Additional Factors:

• Luster: Mint shine remaining on the surface can enhance value, especially for higher grades.
• Toning: Natural toning can add aesthetic appeal and value, but excessively dark or unattractive toning can detract.

Recommendations:

• To determine the exact value of your 1855 Seated Half Dime, consider getting it professionally graded by a service like PCGS or NGC. This will identify the variety, assign an accurate grade, and factor in other characteristics to provide a more precise value assessment.
• Research online auction results and dealer listings of graded 1855 Seated Half Dimes with similar characteristics, including variety and condition, to understand current market prices.