The coin in question is a Seated Liberty Half Dime, produced in 1848 at the Philadelphia Mint. It features a denomination of 5 cents and is composed of silver, weighing approximately 1.34 grams. The diameter of the coin is 15.5 mm, making it a compact piece of currency that is characteristic of the Half Dime series. The Seated Liberty design, which adorns this coin, showcases the iconic depiction of Lady Liberty seated, a symbol of freedom and strength that was prevalent in 19th-century American coinage. The mint mark "P" indicates its production in Philadelphia, one of the key mints during this period. The total mintage for this particular year and type is 668,000, which contributes to its significance among collectors. As a piece of American numismatic history, the 1848 Seated Liberty Half Dime represents not just a monetary value of 5 cents, but also a rich legacy of craftsmanship and design in U.S. coins. This coin is a great addition to any collection focusing on the Seated Liberty series or pre-Civil War American currency.
