1872-S Seated Liberty Half Dime // NGC Certified MS63 S Above Bow // Wood Presentation Box

The Seated Liberty Half Dime is a vintage American coin minted from 1837 to 1873. At a time when all coins valued above one cent were minted in silver or gold, the U.S. 5-cent coin was commonly referred to as the half dime, since “nickels” had not yet become a reality. Today, these curious coins are seldom seen but are cherished by coin collectors and enthusiasts of American history alike. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in plush-lined box with a certificate of authenticity.

Due to improvements in the silver and gold bullion supply and advances in minting technology, the production of both silver and gold coins increased dramatically in the 1830s. The completion of a new and much larger Philadelphia Mint building in 1833 further supported the mintage and circulation of coins. These conditions prompted Mint Director Robert Patterson to seek fresh designs and hire Christian Gobrecht to assist Chief Engraver William Kneass, who had recently suffered a debilitating stroke. Gobrecht ultimately created the Seated Liberty design employed on most silver coinage of the mid to late 19th century (1836-1891), including the half dime, dime, twenty-cent piece, quarter, half dollar, and dollar denominations.

At a time when all coins valued above one cent were minted in silver or gold, the U.S. 5-cent coin was commonly referred to as the half dime, since “nickels” had not yet become a reality. The obverse features Lady Liberty seated upon a rock, holding a liberty pole and cap symbolic of freedom in her left arm, and a shield in her right to defend it. The reverse design of the half dime and dime features a wreath encircling the denomination. With room for more elaborate design elements, the larger denominations feature an American Bald Eagle with outstretched wings holding an olive branch and bundle of arrows in its talons.