Numismatic

1844-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar XF

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Struck in the antebellum South, this 1844 half dollar represents a fascinating era of American silver coinage. Minted at the historic New Orleans facility, the coin is distinguished by its 'O' mint mark, a detail highly prized by those who study the regional history of early United States coin production. Containing 0.3866 troy ounces of 90 percent pure silver, this piece survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the intricate details of its mid nineteenth century artistry. The obverse features the iconic depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand rests upon a shield inscribed with the word 'LIBERTY'. This elegant figure, created by Christian Gobrecht, became one of the most enduring symbols on American silver coinage during the 1800s. On the reverse, a powerful eagle is depicted with a shield across its chest, clutching three arrows and an olive branch in its talons. This classic heraldic imagery is surrounded by the legend denoting the United States of America and the half dollar denomination, showcasing the rich engraving details that remain remarkably crisp on this well-preserved specimen.