Numismatic

1840-O Liberty Seated Half Dime No Drapery Good

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In 1840, the New Orleans Mint produced a silver five-cent piece that showcases an early variation of one of America's most enduring coin designs. This particular issue is notable for its "No Drapery" style, a distinct phase in the evolution of the Liberty Seated series. Struck in 90% silver, this small coin carries a modest 0.0387 troy ounces of precious metal, yet it holds immense interest for those drawn to early United States coinage. The obverse features the figure of Liberty seated upon a rock. In her right hand, she supports a shield, while her left hand holds a staff topped with a liberty cap. This early execution of the design lacks the extra fold of fabric, or drapery, beneath her left elbow that would appear on later versions. The date 1840 is clearly anchored at the bottom. On the reverse, the words "HALF DIME" are nestled inside a delicate, circular wreath. Encircling this central wreath is the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". This coin represents a fascinating moment in the pre-1933 era of American minting, capturing a transitional design phase from a historic southern branch mint.