A United States ½ Dollar contains 0.3600 troy oz of pure silver, worth $19.46 at today's spot price.
United States struck the ½ Dollar silver coin from 1853 to 1873 in 90% silver. Each coin weighs 12.441 g and holds 0.3600 troy oz (11.197 g) of pure silver. The dollar was also used in Canada, China, Great Britain, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Liberia and other countries.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 24, 2:49 AM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1853–1873 |
|---|---|
| Face value | ½ Dollar |
| Composition | 90% silver |
| Gross weight | 12.441 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.3600 troy oz (11.197 g) |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure silver in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
12.441 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.3600 troy oz
0.3600 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $19.46
Melt value vs. collector value
Melt value is a floor, not a price. Better dates, coins with mint luster and graded coins often sell well above melt; key dates and rare varieties can be worth many times more. Check the date and mint mark before selling a coin for its metal.