Numismatic

1853 Liberty Seated Half Dollar w/Arrows & Rays VF

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In 1853, the Philadelphia Mint produced a highly distinctive variation of the Liberty Seated half dollar. This specific issue is instantly recognizable due to a design element that would never appear on the series again: a series of bold rays radiating outward behind the eagle on the reverse side. This one-year-only design feature makes the 1853 release a standout moment in nineteenth-century American coinage. Struck from 90 percent silver, this coin contains approximately 0.3599 troy ounces of precious metal. The obverse displays the classic figure of Liberty seated, with the year 1853 clearly visible below her. On the reverse, the eagle is flanked by arrows at its claws, with the dramatic rays filling the background field. The denomination is indicated at the bottom as "HALF DOL." This particular coin survives in Very Fine condition. While it shows honest signs of circulation wear from its time in commerce, the major design details remain strong and clear. Out of a total mintage of 3,532,708 pieces struck in Philadelphia, this survivor offers a tangible look at a brief and unique design experiment in United States minting history.