Numismatic

1872-S Liberty Seated Half Dime Below Bow AU

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In 1872, the San Francisco mint struck a diminutive silver coin that carries an immense amount of detail within its small diameter. This half dime, minted with a purity of 90 percent silver, represents the classic American coinage of the nineteenth century. Despite its small size, the coin showcases an intricate engraving that has fascinated observers for generations. The obverse side presents a seated figure of Liberty. She is depicted holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, while her other hand rests upon a shield inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Below her feet, the date 1872 is clearly struck, anchoring the piece in a specific moment of American history. On the reverse, a delicate wreath encircles the face value, which is written as HALF DIME. For those who look closely at the very bottom of the design, just beneath the bow that ties the wreath together, the small letter S is visible. This tiny mint mark identifies the coin as a product of the San Francisco mint, adding a final touch of geographic identity to this beautifully preserved silver piece.