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The Seated Liberty Half Dollar of 1858-O is a notable example of mid-19th-century American coinage, reflecting a significant period in the development of U.S. currency. Struck during the tenure of Mint Engraver Christian Gobrecht, this coin exemplifies the design and production techniques employed by the U.S. Mint at the time. The 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is particularly significant due to its minting location and historical context, making it a valuable piece for collectors and historians alike.
The design of the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is the work of Christian Gobrecht, who served as the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1840 until his death in 1844. Although Gobrecht passed away before the 1858-O was struck, his designs continued to be used on U.S. coinage for several years. The obverse of the Seated Liberty Half Dollar features a depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a liberty pole with a cap in her right. This design symbolizes strength and freedom, with Liberty’s calm and resolute posture reflecting the ideals of the period. The date “1858” appears below Liberty, and the surrounding inscription reads “LIBERTY” on the shield and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the border. The reverse of the coin displays a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows. The eagle is encircled by a ribbon that reads “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the coin's denomination, “HALF DOLLAR,” is inscribed below. The overall design of the coin is characterized by its classic, neoclassical style, emphasizing both Liberty's grace and the nation's strength.
The 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar was minted at the New Orleans Mint, which was one of several branch mints established to address the growing demand for coinage in the expanding United States. The New Orleans Mint, operational since 1838, played a crucial role in producing coinage for the southern and western regions of the country. The mintage of the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar was approximately 200,000 coins. This number reflects the coin's role in circulation and its significance within the broader context of mid-19th-century American commerce. While the mintage was relatively high compared to some other coins of the period, the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is still valued for its historical importance and its association with the New Orleans Mint.
In terms of condition, a Good (G) grade for the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar indicates that the coin has experienced significant wear, with many of its finer details being obscured. In Good condition, the coin will show considerable flattening of the design elements, with Liberty’s features and the inscriptions on both the obverse and reverse being worn and less distinct. The shield on Liberty’s dress and the eagle’s details may be faint, with much of the original design being worn smooth. Despite this wear, the basic elements of the design, such as the date and the coin's inscriptions, are still identifiable. The overall appearance of the coin will be characterized by a smooth, even surface, with the signs of circulation wear being evident. Good examples of the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar are still appreciated by collectors for their historical significance and their representation of mid-19th-century American numismatics.
The 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a key piece in the study of U.S. coinage, offering valuable insights into the history and development of American currency. The coin’s design, minting history, and condition all contribute to its significance and appeal. As a product of the New Orleans Mint and a reflection of Christian Gobrecht’s artistic vision, the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar represents a notable moment in American coinage. Collectors and historians value this coin for its historical importance, its role in the evolution of U.S. coinage, and its representation of the artistry and technical standards of the mid-19th century. Despite its wear, the 1858-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar continues to be a cherished item for those who appreciate the rich heritage of American numismatics and the nuances of its historical development.