Numismatic

1862-S Liberty Seated Half Dollar VF

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Struck during a turbulent period in American history, this 1862 silver half dollar from the San Francisco Mint represents a classic era of United States coinage. Crafted from 90 percent silver, the coin contains 0.3868 troy ounces of precious metal and exhibits the wear consistent with a Very Fine grading, showing that it circulated actively in the commerce of the Old West. The obverse displays Christian Gobrecht's elegant depiction of Liberty. She is shown seated upon a rock, her right hand supporting a shield that represents national unity, while her left hand holds a pole topped with a liberty cap. Below this central figure, the date 1862 is clearly visible. On the reverse, a powerful eagle is depicted with wings spread, perched upon an olive branch and holding three arrows in its talons. A shield is positioned across the eagle's chest, mirroring the protective theme of the obverse. The mint mark S is present below the eagle, indicating its origin at the San Francisco facility, while the denomination is inscribed at the bottom.