Numismatic

1860-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar XF

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Struck in the final year before the outbreak of the American Civil War, this 1860 half dollar represents a fascinating moment in United States coinage. Minted at the historic New Orleans facility, indicated by the 'O' mint mark, this coin is composed of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.3599 troy ounces of precious metal. It survives today in an Extra Fine state of preservation, displaying the detailed artistry of the era with remarkable clarity. The obverse features Christian Gobrecht's celebrated design of Liberty seated. She holds a pole topped with a liberty cap in one hand while her other hand rests on a shield inscribed with the word 'LIBERTY'. Below this central figure, the year 1860 is clearly anchored. This imagery presents a powerful symbol of mid-nineteenth-century American identity. On the reverse, a detailed eagle is depicted perched upon a branch, clutching three arrows in its talons. A shield is positioned across the eagle's chest, mirroring the shield on the obverse. The surrounding inscription identifies the nation as the 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and denotes the face value of the coin as a half dollar. This combination of patriotic motifs makes the 1860-O half dollar a compelling piece for anyone exploring the evolution of American silver coinage.