Numismatic

1854-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar VF

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In 1854, the New Orleans Mint struck a remarkable silver half dollar that captures the artistic spirit of mid nineteenth century American coinage. This fifty cent piece, composed of 90 percent silver with a precious metal content of 0.3575 troy ounces, stands as a fascinating survivor from the pre 1933 era. It remains in Very Fine condition, preserving the intricate details of its historic imagery for modern observers to appreciate. The obverse of the coin displays Christian Gobrecht's celebrated design of Lady Liberty. She is depicted sitting gracefully, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand rests upon a shield. The reverse presents a powerful eagle perched on a branch, grasping three arrows in its talons with a defensive shield positioned across its chest. Below this avian motif, the distinct 'O' mint mark identifies its origin from the historic coin production facility in Louisiana. Legible inscriptions on the coin frame these iconic images, with 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and the denomination 'HALF DOL.' wrapping around the reverse border, while the year 1854 is anchored firmly at the base of the obverse.