Numismatic

1855 Half Cent MS-63 NGC (Brown)

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In 1855, the Philadelphia Mint produced a limited run of just 56,500 half cent coins. These copper pieces represent a fascinating era of early American decimal currency, serving as the smallest denomination in circulation. The coin features simple yet elegant inscriptions, with the obverse displaying the date 1855 and the reverse bearing the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding the central denomination of HALF CENT. This particular specimen has survived in remarkable condition, certified by professional graders as MS-63 with a distinct brown copper patina. Because it features no mint mark, we know it originated from the main minting facility in Philadelphia. Exploring such a highly graded survivor offers a direct window into the craftsmanship of mid-nineteenth-century American coining.