Numismatic

1858-O Liberty Seated Half Dime XF

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In the decade preceding the American Civil War, the New Orleans mint produced a tiny silver coin that carried a powerful message of freedom. The 1858-O Liberty Seated half dime, struck with a purity of 90 percent silver, represents a fascinating era in United States coinage when five-cent pieces were made of precious metal rather than nickel. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the intricate details of a mid-nineteenth-century design. The obverse of the coin features the iconic figure of Liberty seated on a rock. In her hands, she holds a staff topped with a liberty cap, while her other hand rests upon a shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. This imagery, created by Christian Gobrecht, was a staple of American silver currency during this period. The year 1858 is clearly anchored at the base of the design. On the reverse, the coin displays its denomination of HALF DIME, encircled by a delicate wreath. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds this central wreath, framing the value of the coin. For those who appreciate the subtle variations of early branch mint issues, the small 'O' mint mark signifies its origin from the historic coin press in New Orleans, Louisiana.