Half cents of the early years are typically seen in well worn grades. Specimens in preservation from G-4 through F-12 are considered to be quite desirable. Even the advanced numismatist would be pleased with coins grading from VF-20 through AU-50. Uncirculated coins exist for certain issues, but are seen so seldom and are so expensive that collecting them in this level of preservation is not a realistic goal.

Half cents of the 19th century: No half cents were struck bearing the dates 1798 and 1799. In 1800 a new motif, the Draped Bust style, made its appearance and was continued through the year 1808. Particularly scarce is the 1802 half cent. For some reason, nearly all 1802 cents known to exist are in worn grades. A coin in EF-40 preservation would be a major rarity, and no Mint State examples with original color are known to exist. Numerous die varieties were produced in the year 1804, and include such variations as plain 4 (in the final date numeral) and stems to the reverse wreath; plain 4, stemless wreath; crosslet 4, stems to wreath; crosslet 4, stemless wreath; and Spiked Chin.

Desirable grades for Draped Bust half cents of the 1800-1808 style are VF-20 upward. Particularly in demand are coins with attractive, glossy surfaces. Uncirculated coins appear on the market from time to time, particularly bearing the dates 1800 and 1804, remnants of hoards which came to light years ago.

In 1809 the Classic Head half cent was introduced, a motif continued through 1836, but with many gaps. One of the most common of all half cent dates, perhaps the single most plentiful issue of the entire denomination, is the 1809. The 1811 is scarce, and the 1831 and 1836 are great rarities. No half cents were produced bearing the dates 1812 through 1824, as there was little demand for them in the channels of commerce, nor were any struck with the dates 1827 or 1830. A curious and readily available variety is the 1828 with just 12 stars on the obverse instead of the correct 13. Apparently an engraver at the Mint was daydreaming and lost track of what he was doing.

Half cents of the 1809-1836 Classic Head type are collectible in all grades, but the advanced collector and investor is apt to prefer EF-40 or better. MS-60 and MS-63 specimens are readily available for certain issues, especially 1828 with 13 obverse stars.