-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 55233
Checkout
16.jpg)
The 1872-S Certified Seated Dollar Genuine Quest. Color- AU Details is a fascinating and highly collectible coin from the later years of the Seated Liberty Dollar series. The Seated Liberty Dollar, first introduced in 1840, represents one of the most elegant and historically significant coin designs of the 19th century. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this series saw circulation across an expanding United States during a time of economic growth, westward expansion, and increasing silver trade. The 1872-S issue is particularly desirable due to its status as a San Francisco Mint production, its lower mintage, and its relative scarcity in high-grade condition.
The Seated Liberty design was a hallmark of U.S. coinage throughout much of the 19th century, appearing on various denominations from the half dime to the silver dollar. Inspired by British coinage featuring Britannia, the design was created by Christian Gobrecht and was first used on silver dollars in 1836 before being officially adopted for regular issue coinage in 1840. The Seated Liberty motif was meant to symbolize the strength and freedom of the young nation, with Lady Liberty depicted in a classical pose that emphasized American ideals and national pride.
The obverse of the 1872-S Seated Liberty Dollar features the iconic image of Lady Liberty seated on a rock, facing left. She holds a liberty pole topped with a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom and resistance against tyranny. Her right hand rests on a shield emblazoned with the word "LIBERTY," reinforcing the nation’s guiding principles. The design is surrounded by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, with the date "1872" prominently displayed below. In a well-preserved example with AU Details, the intricate details of Liberty’s gown, the folds in her drapery, and the texture of the rock remain visible, though slight wear may be evident on the highest points.
The reverse of the 1872-S Seated Dollar features a bold depiction of the heraldic eagle, a classic symbol of American strength and sovereignty. The eagle is shown with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other. Above the eagle, the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" curves along the rim, while the denomination "ONE DOLLAR" appears below. The "S" mintmark, indicating its production at the San Francisco Mint, is located just above the denomination. The fine details of the eagle’s feathers, the texture of the arrows, and the positioning of the talons are key aspects that collectors examine when assessing the coin’s quality.
The 1872-S Seated Liberty Dollar was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which played a crucial role in producing coinage for the western United States. Established in 1854 to support the gold and silver production of the California Gold Rush, the San Francisco Mint was known for producing high-quality coinage that was heavily used in commerce. Unlike many Philadelphia Mint issues that remained in government vaults, the majority of San Francisco Mint silver dollars were actively circulated, making high-grade specimens relatively rare today.
The mintage of the 1872-S Seated Dollar was approximately 9,000 coins, a relatively low production figure that adds to its desirability among collectors. Many of these coins saw extensive use in everyday transactions, especially in California and other parts of the western economy where silver dollars were more widely accepted than in the eastern states. Given their heavy circulation, well-preserved examples are difficult to find, making any surviving high-grade specimen a valuable piece of numismatic history.
The designation of "Genuine Quest. Color - AU Details" assigned by a third-party grading service indicates that this 1872-S Seated Dollar is an authentic coin with an altered or questionable color but retains the details of an About Uncirculated (AU) specimen. This means the coin exhibits only slight wear, typically visible on the highest points of the design, such as Liberty’s knee, breast, and the eagle’s wing tips. Despite its altered color, the coin maintains strong visual appeal, with sharp details and minimal loss of original design elements.
The obverse of an AU Details specimen should display clear and well-defined elements of Liberty’s figure, with only minor signs of wear affecting the highest points of her drapery and the folds of her gown. The stars surrounding her should be fully visible, and the date should remain bold and well-struck. The overall surface should retain much of its original luster, though some light contact marks or surface abrasions may be present.
The reverse of an AU Details specimen should feature a fully detailed eagle with crisp feather textures, particularly on the wings and chest. The olive branch and arrows should remain distinct, and the inscriptions should be strong and fully legible. The "S" mintmark should be clearly visible, with no signs of excessive wear. While some minor surface disturbances may be present due to the coin’s age and circulation, the overall strike should be sharp, maintaining the integrity of the design.
The altered or questionable color designation suggests that the coin has undergone some form of toning or cleaning that has affected its natural patina. This could include artificial toning, environmental exposure, or an attempt to enhance the coin’s appearance. While this designation prevents the coin from receiving a numeric grade, it does not detract from its historical significance or desirability, particularly among collectors who appreciate well-preserved early U.S. silver dollars.
The 1872-S Seated Liberty Dollar holds tremendous numismatic and historical value due to its limited mintage, association with the San Francisco Mint, and representation of 19th-century American commerce. Collectors seeking to acquire this coin often prioritize originality, strong strikes, and minimal surface issues. Despite its "Genuine Quest. Color - AU Details" designation, this example remains an important piece of numismatic history, offering insight into the economic and monetary landscape of the late 19th century.
The Seated Liberty Dollar series represents one of the most elegant and historically rich periods of U.S. coinage. The 1872-S issue, with its limited mintage and association with the San Francisco Mint, remains a highly sought-after coin among collectors. The Type I reverse used on this issue further adds to its historical appeal, preserving the original design that would later be modified in subsequent series.
The 1872-S Certified Seated Dollar Genuine Quest. Color- AU Details serves as a lasting testament to America’s early monetary history and the craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint during the 19th century. Despite its altered color designation, this coin retains much of its original detail and artistic beauty, making it a prized acquisition for numismatists who appreciate historical significance and quality coinage. Whether collected for its rarity, design, or connection to the western economy, this Seated Liberty Dollar remains a remarkable example of U.S. numismatic heritage.