1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar was issued to celebrate the centennial of Lady Liberty and the reopening of Ellis Island. As the first commemorative half dollar struck in copper-nickel clad since 1954, it remains a cornerstone for collectors of modern U.S. commemoratives.

What affects the value of 1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar?

• The presence of the original United States Mint packaging and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) increases marketability.
• Coins graded by PCGS or NGC as MS70 or PR70 command the highest premiums within the $15-$25 range.
• Surface preservation, specifically the absence of 'milk spots' or haze on Proof finishes, significantly impacts the final sale price.
• The distinction between the Denver (Uncirculated) and San Francisco (Proof) strikes, as mintage numbers vary between the two facilities.

How to Identify 1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar?

• Check the obverse for the image of the Statue of Liberty with a rising sun in the background.
• Verify the reverse design which depicts an immigrant family standing on the pier at Ellis Island.
• Look for the 'S' mint mark for Proof versions from San Francisco or the 'D' mint mark for Uncirculated versions from Denver.
• Confirm the material is copper-nickel clad rather than silver, as only the dollar and five-dollar coins in this set contained precious metals.

History of 1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar

The 1986 Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Commemorative Coin Program was authorized to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty and the reopening of Ellis Island. This particular half dollar features the Statue of Liberty on the obverse and Ellis Island on the reverse, serving as a tribute to these iconic American landmarks and their historical significance as symbols of freedom and immigration.