225+ LuckyCoin collectors track this series
Spanning 1809 to 1836, the Classic Head Half Cent catalog contains 21 year-and-mintmark variants. Across the series, the key date is the 1831 Classic Head Half Cent at just 2,200 struck and the highest-value variant is the 1811 Classic Head Half Cent at up to $110,000 in top grade.
Combined mintage per year across every strike type (circulated, proof, and specimen) and all mintmarks.
The Classic Head Half Cent is a popular, collectible coin developed by the United States Mint in 1809, with a series of mintage dates stretching all the way until 1836. It's one of the earliest coins to be produced in the United States and, for many, is seen as the definitive coin of the American Coinage Experiment. The obverse side of the Classic Head Half Cent depicts Lady Liberty wearing a cap with a thick ribbon that reads "LIBERTY". Surrounding Liberty’s portrait is the date of the coin. The reverse of these coins feature a wreath with a single palm frond in the center and the words "HALF CENT" above the wreath. The diameter of the Classic Head Half Cent is 23mm.
Due to its age, the Classic Head Half Cent is particularly sought after by coin collectors. Its high mintage and wide availability means that most coins are in good to moderately worn condition. The highest grade that a Classic Head Half Cent usually reaches is around VF-20 to XF-45. However, the highest grade known for this coin is MS-63, which is very impressive for a coin of its age. The coin’s nomimal value in today's market is around $100 but can increase significantly based on condition and grade.For many avid coin collectors, the Classic Head Half Cent is an object of admiration and a must-have for their collections. For those looking to add this historical piece of American coinage to their portfolio, it's important to remember that coins certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) are typically more sought after.
Looking for coins from a specific year across every denomination? Browse US coin values by year →
Which Classic Head Half Cent coins do collectors actually own? See the 2026 rarity & ownership report →