-
Inventory:
3 In Stock
- Product ID: 23471
Checkout
The Seated Liberty Half Dime of 1872 is a notable issue within the Seated Liberty series, a coinage series introduced in 1837 and designed by Christian Gobrecht. This series is recognized for its classical design and is a significant part of American numismatic history. The 1872 Half Dime holds particular interest as it was minted during a period of economic recovery and growth following the American Civil War, reflecting the resilience and progress of the United States during the late 19th century.
The design of the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime retains the hallmark features of the Seated Liberty series. On the obverse, Liberty is portrayed seated on a rock, draped in a flowing gown, and holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, which symbolizes freedom and strength. Surrounding Liberty are thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States. Directly below Liberty is the date “1872,” which specifies the year of minting. The reverse design of the coin showcases a wreath of olive branches encircling the denomination “5 C,” with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DIME” prominently displayed. This design not only emphasizes the aesthetic appeal but also underscores the coin's functionality as part of everyday transactions.
The Philadelphia Mint, which was the principal minting facility for the United States during the 19th century, was responsible for producing the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime. As the central mint of the nation, Philadelphia played a crucial role in the coinage production, ensuring that the needs of the expanding economy were met. The total mintage for the 1872 Half Dime was approximately 1,060,000 coins. This substantial mintage reflects the continued demand for small-denomination coinage during a period of economic stability and growth. The production numbers highlight the mint's capacity to produce large quantities of coinage to support everyday commerce during a period of renewed prosperity following the Civil War.
The Very Good (VG) grade of the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime indicates that the coin has seen moderate circulation and wear, yet it still retains some key design features. In this grade, the coin will exhibit significant wear on both the obverse and reverse. On the obverse, the figure of Liberty will show flattening of detail, with her gown and the staff becoming less distinct. The surrounding stars and inscriptions will also be worn, with finer details becoming less legible. Despite these signs of wear, the primary design elements and inscriptions are still discernible, making Very Good examples of the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime valuable to collectors who appreciate the historical context and the coin's role in American numismatic history. Additionally, the coin may display typical signs of circulation, such as scratches and abrasions, which are common for coins that have been in everyday use.
The 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime is an important piece of American numismatic heritage, reflecting both the artistic design and practical functionality of mid-19th century coinage. The coin's design, minting history, and condition contribute to its significance within the Seated Liberty series. As a product of the Philadelphia Mint and a continuation of Christian Gobrecht’s design legacy, the 1872 Half Dime captures a moment of economic recovery and growth in the United States. Collectors and historians value this coin for its aesthetic appeal and its representation of a significant period in American history. Despite its wear, the 1872 Seated Liberty Half Dime remains a cherished item for those interested in the rich history of American coinage and the evolution of its design over time.