Numismatic

1856 Liberty Seated Half Dime Fine

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In the mid nineteenth century, the United States Mint produced a tiny silver treasure known as the half dime. Minted in Philadelphia, this 1856 specimen is composed of 90 percent silver, containing 0.0387 troy ounces of precious metal. Despite its small size, the coin showcases a remarkably detailed design that captures the artistic spirit of the era. The front of the coin features Lady Liberty sitting gracefully, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap in one hand while supporting a shield with the other. The year 1856 is inscribed directly beneath her. This iconic depiction was created by Christian Gobrecht, whose work defined American silver coinage for decades. On the reverse, a delicate wreath circles the center of the coin, framing the face value of the piece. Encircling this wreath is the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, framing the denomination HALF DIME. This particular coin survives in Fine condition, showing honest wear from its time in circulation while preserving the essential elements of its historic mid-century design.