-
Inventory:
5 In Stock
- Product ID: 23460
Checkout
The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1856 in Very Good condition is a tangible piece of American numismatic history that provides a glimpse into the mid-19th century. This small silver coin, adorned with the iconic Seated Liberty design, carries with it a rich history, intricate design, and a story of its own.
The Seated Liberty design, crafted by Christian Gobrecht, is a striking example of artistic expression in American coinage. On the obverse of the coin, Lady Liberty is seated on a rock, symbolizing freedom and strength. She holds a shield marked with the word "LIBERTY" and wears a Phrygian cap, a traditional emblem of liberty. This design encapsulates the ideals of the young American nation and remains an enduring symbol of American numismatics.
Turning our attention to the reverse of the coin, a wreath of laurel leaves encircles the denomination, "HALF DIME," while the year "1856" is prominently displayed. Unlike some earlier issues, this coin lacks arrows flanking the date, indicating that the silver content remained stable without the need for adjustment due to fluctuating silver prices.
The historical context of this coin is closely tied to the United States Mint and the economic conditions of the mid-19th century. The Philadelphia Mint, the nation's first official mint facility, was established in 1792. Coins minted in Philadelphia bear no mintmark, as it was the primary minting location during this era.
As the year 1856 suggests, this coin was minted during a period of relative stability regarding its silver content. Seated Liberty Half Dimes of this era typically contained 90% silver and 10% copper, adhering to the standard established for United States silver coinage.
The denomination of the Seated Liberty Half Dime is five cents, which is equivalent to 1/20th of a dollar. These small silver coins played a crucial role in everyday commerce during the 19th century, facilitating various transactions across the nation.
Now, let's assess the condition of the 1856 Seated Liberty Half Dime, graded as Very Good. In Very Good condition, a coin exhibits clear signs of circulation, including moderate to heavy wear on the highest points of the design.
On this Very Good coin, you can expect to observe Lady Liberty seated on the rock, although with noticeable wear, especially on her figure and the shield bearing the "LIBERTY" inscription. The Phrygian cap may appear somewhat less distinct, but its essential features should still be discernible. On the reverse, the wreath and the "HALF DIME" denomination may display signs of wear, but they should remain recognizable.
While this coin bears the marks of its journey through circulation, including flattened design elements and surface wear, it retains its historical significance and charm. The wear on the coin's surfaces serves as a testament to its role in everyday transactions during a pivotal period in American history.
In conclusion, the 1856 Seated Liberty Half Dime in Very Good condition stands as a captivating artifact of American numismatic heritage. Its enduring design, association with the Philadelphia Mint, and the absence of arrows indicating a consistent silver content make it a compelling piece of numismatic history. This coin not only invites us to explore the economic and historical context of its era but also encourages an appreciation of its lasting allure.