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The Seated Liberty Quarter of 1859 represents a key moment in American numismatic history, reflecting the design aesthetics and economic conditions of the mid-19th century. As part of the Seated Liberty series, this coin showcases the artistic vision of engraver Christian Gobrecht, whose work sought to embody the ideals of liberty and strength through numismatic art. The 1859 issue is particularly noteworthy due to its place within the broader context of American coinage and its significance to collectors today.
Introduced in 1838, the Seated Liberty design replaced the earlier Liberty Seated Quarter, incorporating a new and more detailed representation of Liberty. This design was a reflection of the evolving aesthetic preferences of the period, moving towards a more realistic and stately portrayal of Liberty. By 1859, the Seated Liberty design had been in circulation for over two decades, and the coin had become a familiar part of American commerce. The 1859 issue, struck during a time of both economic growth and political tension, provides insight into the coinage practices of the era.
The design of the 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter is characterized by its elegant and enduring symbolism. On the obverse, Liberty is depicted seated on a rock, holding a shield in her left hand and a staff topped with a liberty cap in her right. This imagery is meant to convey strength and permanence, with Liberty representing the nation’s resilience and values. The surrounding inscriptions on the obverse read “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” reflecting the principles of faith and liberty that were central to American identity. The reverse features an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch. This emblematic eagle is encircled by a ribbon with the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” signifying unity among the states. The design is completed with a border of thirteen stars, symbolizing the original colonies.
The 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for American coins during the 19th century. The Philadelphia Mint played a crucial role in producing a wide range of coins, including the Seated Liberty series. The 1859 Quarter was struck from a mixture of silver and copper, ensuring durability and a striking appearance. The coin has a weight of 6.22 grams and a diameter of 24.3 millimeters, with a reeded edge designed to prevent tampering and wear.
In terms of mintage, approximately 4.4 million Seated Liberty Quarters were produced in 1859. This substantial mintage indicates that the coin was widely used in circulation, reflecting its role in everyday transactions. Despite this relatively high mintage, the condition of the coin today can vary significantly. The Very Fine (VF) grade, which describes this particular coin, indicates that the coin has experienced moderate wear but retains much of its original detail. In a Very Fine condition, the coin’s design elements are clearly visible, though the high points may exhibit some wear and smoothing.
The condition of the 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter in Very Fine grade reveals its historical journey through circulation. The coin may show signs of wear such as light scratches or surface marks, but its fundamental design features remain distinct. Collectors value coins in this condition for their ability to offer a glimpse into the coin's use and history, while still preserving a substantial amount of detail and character. The Very Fine grade serves as a middle ground between more heavily worn examples and those in higher, uncirculated grades, making it an appealing choice for many collectors.
In conclusion, the Seated Liberty Quarter of 1859 is a significant piece of American numismatic history, reflecting the artistic and economic values of the mid-19th century. The coin’s design, featuring Liberty in a dignified pose and an eagle in a powerful stance, embodies the ideals of the era. Minted at the Philadelphia Mint with a substantial mintage, the 1859 Quarter was widely circulated and used in everyday commerce. The Very Fine condition of this particular coin provides insight into its historical use while preserving a significant amount of its original detail. The 1859 Seated Liberty Quarter remains an important and valued addition to any collection of American coinage, representing a key moment in the evolution of U.S. currency.