-
Inventory:
11 In Stock
- Product ID: 23515
The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1872, in Very Fine condition, is a numismatic treasure that opens a window into the rich history of American coinage. This coin, adorned with the iconic Seated Liberty design, carries with it a wealth of historical significance, a testament to the era it represents. In this description, we will delve into the coin's history, design, minting history, denomination, and its present condition.
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Seated Liberty motif graced various denominations of U.S. coinage during the mid-19th century. The obverse of the Seated Liberty Half Dime features an allegorical representation of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield inscribed with "LIBERTY" and a staff topped with a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom.
Turning our attention to the reverse of the coin, we find a wreath composed of laurel leaves, encircling a prominent "HALF DIME" inscription. The presence of arrows flanking the date "1872" signifies a change in the coin's weight, responding to fluctuations in silver prices, adding historical significance to its design.
The 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime was produced at the United States Mint in Philadelphia, a venerable institution established in 1792. The Philadelphia Mint played a pivotal role in minting U.S. coins to meet the nation's growing need for currency.
While precise mintage figures for the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime may vary due to die varieties and the condition of individual coins, the Philadelphia Mint struck a substantial quantity of these coins in 1872 to facilitate commerce and trade during a period of post-Civil War recovery.
The denomination of the Seated Liberty Half Dime is five cents, equivalent to 1/20th of a dollar. These diminutive coins played a vital role in everyday transactions during the mid-19th century, making them an essential part of the nation's coinage system.
Now, let's examine the condition of the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime, classified as Very Fine. Coins in Very Fine condition exhibit moderate wear on the highest points of the design due to circulation, but they retain a significant amount of detail and character.
On a Very Fine coin, you can expect to see well-preserved features such as Liberty's figure, facial details, and the wreath on the reverse. While some minor wear may be evident, the overall design remains clear and well-defined. The surfaces may show signs of circulation, including light abrasions and slight smoothing.
Collectors highly value Very Fine coins for their historical significance and the tangible connection they provide to the past. These coins have borne witness to the passage of time, participating in numerous transactions and exchanges, and serve as a testament to America's economic and numismatic evolution.
The 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime in Very Fine condition embodies the essence of American coinage during a transformative period. Its design, denomination, and historical context render it a prized addition to numismatic collections, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the coin's journey through history and its enduring allure.