Numismatic

1853 Liberty Seated Half Dollar w/Arrows & Rays AU

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In 1853, the Philadelphia Mint produced a highly distinctive variety of the Liberty Seated half dollar. This particular issue is instantly recognizable due to a design decision that lasted for only a single year. While the obverse depicts the classic figure of seated Liberty, the reverse features a striking array of rays surrounding the central eagle, flanked by arrows at the date on the obverse. These radiant rays were quickly removed from the design, making the 1853 mintage the sole representative of this specific aesthetic combination before the imagery reverted in 1854. Struck in 90% fine silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. Out of a mintage of 3,532,708 pieces struck in Philadelphia, this specimen survives in an impressive Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of the short-lived design. The obverse displays the clear inscription of Liberty and the date 1853, while the reverse bears the legend of the United States of America.