This coin is an 1856 Seated Liberty Half Dime, an important piece of American numismatic history. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, it features the iconic Seated Liberty design, which showcases Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty pole in one hand and a capped shield in the other. The coin, made of silver with a weight of approximately 1.24 grams and a diameter of 15.5 millimeters, represents a denomination of five cents (5¢). The Seated Liberty Half Dime was part of a series produced from 1837 until 1891, with the 1856 issue having a total mintage of around 4,880,000 pieces. This particular coin bears a mint mark of 'P', indicating its origin from the Philadelphia Mint, the primary minting facility in the United States during the 19th century. Its design, material, and historical significance combined contribute to the coin's appeal among collectors. The year 1856 marks a notable point in American history, as the nation was navigating through various social, political, and economic challenges leading up to the Civil War. Collectors prize this coin not only for its silver content but also for its aesthetic beauty and the story it tells about the era in which it was struck. Overall, this Seated Liberty Half Dime is not just a piece of currency, but also a cherished artifact that reflects the artistry of coinage and the economic history of the United States. It remains a desirable item for numismatists, particularly those focused on classic American coins.
| currency | USD |
| currency-amount | 0.05 |
| diameter | 15.5 |
| height | 0 |
| material | Silver |
| mint-mark | P |
| mintage | 4880000 |
| type | Coins |
| weight | 1.24 |
| width | 0 |
| year-display | 1856 |