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The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1859 is a significant issue within the Seated Liberty series, a line of coins designed by Christian Gobrecht and introduced in 1837. This series is renowned for its neoclassical design and its embodiment of the aesthetic values of the mid-19th century. The 1859 Half Dime is notable for its role in the ongoing production of U.S. coinage during a period of economic growth and change.
The design of the 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime is characteristic of the Seated Liberty series. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, draped in a flowing gown and holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, symbolizing freedom and strength. This portrayal of Liberty is surrounded by thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies. Below Liberty is the date “1859,” which situates the coin within its specific year of issue. On the reverse, a wreath of olive branches encircles the denomination “5 C,” with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DIME” prominently displayed. The design is simple yet elegant, reflecting the classical ideals of the time while fulfilling the practical requirements of a circulating coin.
The 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the principal minting facility for the United States during the 19th century. The Philadelphia Mint played a crucial role in the production of U.S. coinage, serving as the central hub for minting operations and helping to stabilize the nation’s currency system. The mintage for the 1859 Half Dime was approximately 1,130,000 coins. This relatively high mintage indicates that the coin was widely used in daily transactions and was produced to meet the growing demands of the American economy. The production of over a million coins reflects the mint’s capacity to supply the necessary currency and its role in supporting the expanding economy of the period.
In terms of condition, a Very Good (VG) grade for the 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime signifies that the coin has experienced moderate wear while still retaining some of its essential design features. In Very Good condition, the coin will exhibit noticeable wear on both the obverse and reverse. Liberty’s figure will be worn, with details such as her gown and the staff becoming flattened and less distinct. The surrounding stars and inscriptions will also show signs of wear, with some of the finer details becoming less visible. Despite this wear, the primary design elements and inscriptions remain recognizable, making Very Good examples of the 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime valuable to collectors who appreciate the historical and numismatic significance of the coin. The coin’s surface may display typical signs of circulation, including scratches and abrasions, which are common for coins that have been used extensively in everyday transactions.
The 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime is a key piece in the history of American coinage, reflecting both the artistic and practical considerations of the mid-19th century. The coin’s design, minting history, and condition all contribute to its appeal and significance. As a product of the Philadelphia Mint and a continuation of Christian Gobrecht’s design legacy, the 1859 Half Dime captures a notable moment in the evolution of U.S. currency. Collectors and historians value this coin for its role in the development of American coinage and its representation of the artistic and symbolic values of the period. Despite its wear, the 1859 Seated Liberty Half Dime remains a cherished item for those interested in the rich heritage of American numismatics and the complexities of its historical development.