Numismatic

1866-S Liberty Seated Half Dollar VG

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In 1866, the San Francisco Mint produced a silver half dollar that captures the artistic transition of mid nineteenth century American coinage. Struck in 90 percent silver with a precious metal weight of 0.3575 troy ounces, this fifty cent piece represents a fascinating era of minting on the West Coast. The coin is preserved in Very Good condition, showing honest wear from its time in active circulation. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the obverse features Liberty seated on a rock. In her left hand, she supports a staff topped with a liberty cap, while her right hand rests upon a shield decorated with stripes. The year 1866 is anchored at the bottom of the design, grounding the piece in its historical moment. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle perched upon an olive branch, grasping three arrows in its talons. A shield is positioned over the eagle's chest, mirroring the protective theme from the obverse. The inscriptions on the reverse include the denomination, abbreviated as HALF DOL, and the national identification, AMERICA, framing this classic design.