The coin in question is a 1856 Seated Liberty Half Dollar minted in New Orleans, denoted by the "O" mint mark. This iconic piece of American numismatics features the Seated Liberty design, which was created by famed engraver Christian Gobrecht and symbolizes freedom and independence. Struck in silver, this coin has a weight of 12.44 grams and a diameter of 30.6 millimeters, typical for half dollars of this era. The coin's denomination is 50 cents, and a total of 2,658,000 pieces were produced during its minting year. The Seated Liberty design portrays a robust depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in one hand and a liberty cap on a pole in the other, symbolizing the perseverance and ideals of the United States. The obverse of the coin features the date "1856" prominently, while the reverse displays the heraldic eagle, representing strength and resilience. Due to its age, historical significance, and intriguing artistry, the 1856 Seated Liberty Half Dollar is highly sought after by collectors. Its value may vary significantly based on its condition, which can range from a well-preserved example with minimal wear to more heavily circulated pieces. Each coin tells a story of its era and carries a unique place in the history of American currency.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 0.5 |
| diameter | 30.6 |
| height | 0 |
| material | Silver |
| mint-mark | O |
| mintage | 2658000 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 12.44 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1856 |