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The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1837 with the Small Date is an important and collectible piece from the early days of the Seated Liberty series, which represents a significant era in U.S. numismatic history. The coin was introduced in 1837, marking the beginning of the Seated Liberty design series, which would remain a staple of American coinage through the late 19th century. This particular issue, featuring the Small Date variant, is notable for its historical and design elements, as well as its rarity and appeal to collectors.
The Seated Liberty Half Dime was designed by Christian Gobrecht, who was the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. Gobrecht's design features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff with a liberty cap on its top in her left hand. Her right hand rests on a shield adorned with stars, symbolizing protection and strength. The coin’s obverse design is highly symbolic, reflecting the values and ideals of the period. Liberty’s posture and the items she holds are emblematic of freedom and security, which were central to American identity in the 19th century.
The reverse of the 1837 Seated Liberty Half Dime presents a wreath of olive branches encircling the denomination “5 C” (for five cents). The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is displayed around the top edge of the coin, while “HALF DIME” is located within the lower part of the wreath. This reverse design emphasizes unity and peace, underscoring the coin’s role as a circulating piece of currency and its connection to the American values of the time.
The coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for U.S. coinage during this period. The total mintage for the 1837 Seated Liberty Half Dime was relatively modest, with approximately 1,200,000 coins struck. This figure reflects the early phase of the Seated Liberty series, and while the number of coins produced might seem significant, the survival rate of high-quality specimens from this era makes them desirable among collectors. The Small Date variety, in particular, is sought after for its distinctive and rare characteristics.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the 1837 Seated Liberty Half Dime exhibits a well-preserved level of detail, with more intricate features visible compared to coins in lower grades. On the obverse, Liberty's features are notably defined, including her gown, the staff she holds, and the shield with the stars. The date “1837” is clear and prominent, reflecting the coin’s production year. The reverse displays a distinct wreath with well-defined inscriptions of “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DIME.” The letters and design elements are sharp, though there may be some light wear on the high points, which is characteristic of coins in the Extra Fine grade.
The 1837 Seated Liberty Half Dime in Extra Fine condition is a valuable piece for collectors due to its historical significance and design excellence. The Small Date variant adds to the coin's rarity and appeal, making it a sought-after item in the Seated Liberty series. Its well-preserved condition highlights the craftsmanship of Gobrecht’s design and the quality of early American minting practices. As a collectible coin, it represents a crucial chapter in U.S. numismatic history, reflecting both the artistic and economic contexts of its time.
Overall, the Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1837, particularly the Small Date variety in Extra Fine condition, is a remarkable example of early American coinage. Its design, minting history, and preservation make it a prized item for numismatic enthusiasts and collectors, offering a glimpse into the early days of the Seated Liberty series and the broader context of 19th-century American currency.