Liberty Seated Half Dime
There are no products listed under this category.
Seated Liberty Half Dime Varieties (1837–1873)
Discover the enduring legacy of the Seated Liberty Half Dime, one of America’s last silver half dimes, minted between 1837 and 1873. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this series depicts Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield, embodying the resilience and values of a growing nation.
The series is divided into distinct subtypes, showcasing the evolution of design elements over time:
-
1837 - No Stars
The inaugural design featured a simple obverse without stars, first struck in Philadelphia in 1837 and later in New Orleans in 1838. -
1839 - No Drapery
A refinement in 1839 introduced a subtle yet impactful alteration: the removal of drapery detail near Liberty’s elbow. -
1855 - Arrows at Date
To reflect a federally mandated weight reduction due to rising silver prices, small arrows were added to each side of the date from 1853 to 1855. -
1858 - Stars Return
The stars, representing the original states, encircled the obverse, used consistently until the introduction of the next major change in 1860. -
1873 - Legend Obverse
In 1860, the stars were replaced by the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, marking the final design iteration. A wreath replaced earlier reverse designs, staying in use until the series concluded in 1873.
Minted in Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco, these coins span a historical era of economic growth and change, with over 84 million produced in total. They remain highly sought after for their variety and historical significance.
