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The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1871 represents a distinguished issue in the Seated Liberty series, which was first introduced in 1837 by Christian Gobrecht. This series is renowned for its classical and elegant design, which reflects the artistic and cultural values of 19th-century America. The 1871 Half Dime is particularly notable as it was minted during a period of relative stability and economic growth following the Civil War, capturing a moment of transition in American history.
The design of the 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime adheres to the familiar motifs of the Seated Liberty series. On the obverse, Liberty is depicted seated on a rock, adorned in a flowing gown and holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, which symbolizes freedom and strength. The surrounding thirteen stars represent the original thirteen colonies of the United States. Below Liberty, the date “1871” is prominently displayed, indicating the year of issue. The reverse design features a wreath of olive branches encircling the denomination “5 C,” with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DIME” prominently featured. This design was intended to combine aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, ensuring that the coin was both beautiful and suited for everyday use.
The 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for the United States during the 19th century. The Philadelphia Mint was instrumental in the production of U.S. coinage and served as the central mint responsible for a significant portion of the country’s coin output. The total mintage for the 1871 Half Dime was approximately 1,050,000 coins. This substantial mintage reflects the ongoing demand for circulating coinage during a period of economic expansion. The production numbers also underscore the mint’s capability to meet the needs of a growing and increasingly stable economy during the post-Civil War era.
In terms of condition, a Very Good (VG) grade for the 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime indicates that the coin has experienced moderate wear but retains some of its key design elements. In this grade, the coin will show significant wear on both the obverse and reverse. On the obverse, Liberty’s figure will be worn, with details such as her gown and the staff becoming less distinct. The surrounding stars and inscriptions will also exhibit wear, with finer details being less visible. Despite this wear, the primary design features and inscriptions remain recognizable, which makes Very Good examples of the 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime valuable to collectors who appreciate the historical context and the coin’s role in American numismatic history. The coin may also show signs of typical circulation, including scratches and abrasions, reflecting its use in everyday transactions.
The 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime is a significant piece of American numismatic history, embodying both the artistic and practical elements of mid-19th century coin design. The coin’s design, minting history, and condition all contribute to its historical and collectible value. As a product of the Philadelphia Mint and a continuation of Christian Gobrecht’s design legacy, the 1871 Half Dime captures a moment of stability and growth in the United States. Collectors and historians value this coin for its aesthetic appeal and its representation of an important period in American history. Despite its wear, the 1871 Seated Liberty Half Dime remains a cherished item for those interested in the rich heritage of American numismatics and the complexities of its historical evolution.