Numismatic

1840-1873 Liberty Seated Dollar Fine

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Introduced for general circulation in 1840, the Liberty Seated dollar represents a fascinating era in United States coinage. Crafted from 0.900 fine silver with a total precious metal content of 0.7734 troy ounces, this denomination saw its role change dramatically over its three decades of production. By the 1850s, the rising cost of silver meant the physical metal within these coins was worth more than their one dollar face value, which eventually led to later issues being utilized mostly in export trade. The design, created by Christian Gobrecht, presents a classic allegorical representation of American values. On the obverse, Lady Liberty is depicted sitting down, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while resting her other hand on a shield. The reverse side features a heraldic eagle perched upon a branch, grasping three arrows, with a protective shield displayed across its chest.