Numismatic

1844 Liberty Seated Half Dime Fine

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In 1844, the Philadelphia Mint produced a run of 430,000 silver half dimes. These small coins, struck in 90 percent silver with a weight of 0.0387 troy ounces, represent a classic era of United States coinage. Because they were minted in Philadelphia, these specimens do not carry a mint mark, making their clean surfaces a direct reflection of the main minting facility's output during the mid nineteenth century. The obverse features the celebrated design by Christian Gobrecht, which depicts Lady Liberty seated. In her hands, she supports a staff topped with a liberty cap, while her other hand rests upon a shield. The year 1844 is clearly struck below this central figure. On the reverse, the coin's denomination of half dime is encircled by a detailed wreath, which is itself surrounded by the inscription naming the United States of America. Surviving today in Fine condition, this coin shows the honest wear of a piece that circulated actively in daily commerce. The Liberty Seated series remains a favorite for those exploring the evolution of early American silver coinage, offering a tangible window into the design aesthetics of the 1840s.