Numismatic

1854 Liberty Seated Half Dollar w/Arrows AG

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In 1854, the Philadelphia Mint produced a striking variation of the half dollar, distinguished by the addition of arrows flanking the date on the obverse. This silver coin, struck with a purity of 90 percent silver, represents a fascinating moment in mid-nineteenth-century American coinage. The piece contains approximately 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal, carrying with it the physical weight of a bygone era. The obverse design, created by Christian Gobrecht, showcases Lady Liberty in a seated position. She holds a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand rests on a shield. Below her, the year 1854 is clearly marked, framed by the distinctive arrows that make this particular issue so recognizable to observers. On the reverse, a detailed heraldic eagle is depicted perched upon a branch. The eagle holds three arrows in its talons, with a shield positioned across its chest. The surrounding inscription reads HALF DOL. to denote its fifty-cent face value, alongside the country name, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This specific coin is graded as Almost Good, showing the honest wear of a piece that likely circulated widely during a turbulent decade in American history.