Numismatic

1846 Liberty Seated Half Dollar XF (Tall Date)

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In 1846, the Philadelphia Mint produced a silver half dollar that showcases one of the most enduring motifs in American coinage. This fifty-cent piece, struck in 90% silver, contains 0.3866 troy ounces of the precious metal. Because it was minted at the main Philadelphia facility, it does not bear a mint mark, leaving the space clean to emphasize the intricate engraving work of Christian Gobrecht. The obverse of the coin presents a seated figure of Liberty. She rests on a rock, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand supports a shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Below this graceful figure, the year 1846 is struck in a tall date format, anchoring the design. On the reverse, a powerful eagle is depicted with a shield across its chest. The bird is perched on an olive branch while grasping three arrows in its talons. Surrounding this central image are the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination, expressed as HALF DOL. This piece survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the fine details of Gobrecht's mid nineteenth century vision.