Numismatic

1856-O Liberty Seated Quarter VF

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In 1856, the New Orleans Mint produced a silver quarter featuring one of the most enduring designs in United States coinage. Struck with a purity of 90 percent silver, this twenty-five cent piece represents a fascinating era of American coin production, carrying the distinctive 'O' mint mark that connects it directly to the historic Louisiana facility. The obverse of the coin displays a seated figure of Liberty, positioned on a rock and looking toward the left. In her hand, she holds a staff topped with a Phrygian cap, a classic symbol of freedom. This central figure is framed by thirteen stars along the border, representing the original colonies, with the year 1856 inscribed below. On the reverse, an eagle is depicted facing left with a shield across its chest. The bird holds an olive branch in its right claw and a bundle of three arrows in its left, representing peace and defense. The surrounding legend reads UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, while the abbreviated denomination QUAR. DOL. is positioned at the bottom.