At PennyVerse.info, we’ve researched recent eBay sales and auction records to bring you the definitive value guide for these collectible errors.
Most Valuable Bicentennial Half Dollar Errors
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Description: Clear doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date.
- Key Varieties:
- FS-101 (Strong doubling) – $300 to $1,500
- FS-102 (Moderate doubling) – $150 to $800
- Recent Sale: $1,250 (FS-101, AU-55)
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
- Description: Doubling in Independence Hall details.
- Value Range: $200 to $1,000
- Record Sale: $950 (MS-64, 2023)
Off-Center Strikes (10–40%)
- Description: Part of the design is missing.
- Value Range:
- 10–20% Off-Center – $50 to $150
- 30–40% Off-Center – $200 to $800
- Most Valuable: 35–40% off-center with date visible
Clipped Planchet Errors
- Description: Crescent-shaped missing metal on the coin’s edge.
- Value Range: $75 to $400
- Premium Example: Multiple clip errors
How to Identify These Errors
Step-by-Step Inspection Guide
- Check Lettering – Use 10x magnification to spot doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
- Examine the Date – Look for notching or separation in “1776–1976”.
- Inspect the Reverse – Focus on Independence Hall for doubling or weak strike areas.
- Review the Edges – Look for clipped or irregular planchets.
Recommended Tools
10x Jeweler’s Loupe – For clear magnification
LED Light Source – To highlight surface details
Digital Microscope – For advanced error detection
2024 Market Trends
- Strong DDO varieties remain in highest demand
- 40% silver versions command ~20% premium
- Certified errors sell for 2–3× raw coin prices
- Complete error sets are gaining collector interest
Where to Sell Your Bicentennial Error Half Dollar
| Error Type | Best Venue | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Major DDO/DDR | Heritage Auctions | $500–$5,000 |
| Off-Center 20%+ | eBay | $100–$800 |
| Clips/Double Strikes | Facebook Groups | $75–$400 |
Selling Tips
Use high-resolution photos to show the error clearly
Compare to recent sales before setting a price
Consider PCGS or NGC grading for coins worth $500+
FAQs About Bicentennial Half Dollar Errors
Q: Are all 1776–1976 half dollars valuable?
A: No — only coins with significant errors are worth more than face value (most are $0.50–$3).
Q: How many doubled die varieties exist?
A: At least five confirmed major varieties, with FS-101 being the most valuable.
Q: Where’s the best place to find these errors?
A: Original bank rolls, estate sales, and older coin collections.
Free Resources from PennyVerse.info
Bicentennial Error Checklist- How to Photograph Coin Errors
Current Error Value Guide
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