Introduction
The Liberty Seated Dollar of 1856 is a remarkably uncommon and traditionally precious coin among numismatics. With simply 63,500 cash produced, it is now one of the most sought-after cash for creditors and investors. Not only is this coin valuable in phrases of its shortage, however it is also a defining moment in mid-nineteenth-century United States coinage.
In this text, we will supply a top level view of the history, worth, and trends of the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar and gift to you the whole thing you can want to know approximately its which means and funding ability.
The History Behind the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar
The Liberty Seated Dollar collection was struck by using the U.S. Mint from 1840 to 1873, a time of first-rate financial change and growth inside the USA. These large silver dollars were created to mirror American ideals of freedom, liberty, and development.
The 1856 problem become a part of a low-mintage run. Only 63,500 coins were minted at the Philadelphia Mint that yr, which is a highly small range for a circulating coin. Many had been melted down over time, making surviving examples even rarer today in particular in high grades.
Design Features
The coin’s layout, created by using Christian Gobrecht, is each conventional and symbolic:
- Obverse: Depicts the image of Lady Liberty sitting on a rock, with a shield bearing the inscription “Liberty” and a pole with a liberty cap — representing freedom and watchfulness.
- Reverse: Depicts a regal bald eagle with its wings spread out, holding arrows and an olive branch symbolizing war and peace.
The layout is a undying illustration of mid-19th-century American beliefs and craftsmanship.
Rarity and Market Value
The Liberty Seated Dollar of 1856 is a “semi-key” date within the series, specifically because it has a low mint quantity and is scarce in high grades.
The coin is hard to find in Mint State, and even MS64 graded coins are rare. The highest-grade specimens, such as MS64, have sold for hefty sums at auctions.
Key Auction Sales:
| Coin Grade | Description | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| MS64 | Brilliant with golden and amber toning | $14,950 (Heritage Auctions, 2022) |
| MS63 | Vibrant rainbow toning | $10,200 (Stack’s Bowers, 2021) |
Population Reports:
- PCGS Population:
- MS63: 12 coins
- MS64: 2 coins
- NGC Population:
- MS63: 15 coins
- MS64: None reported
These population reports show just how difficult it is to find high-grade examples of the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar, making it so desirable on the market and desired by serious collectors.
How to Identify a Real 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar
Collectors should seek:
- Date and Mint Mark: 1856, no mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
- Weight: About 26.73 grams
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Design Specifications: Liberty seated on obverse; eagle with shield on reverse
Because of the high value and popularity, fake 1856 dollars do exist, so authentication by a major grading service such as PCGS or NGC is necessary when purchasing or selling.
Investment Potential and Collector Interest
The 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar is a completely popular coin among type set collectors, collection creditors, and traders. Its scarcity, ancient significance, and splendor make it an brilliant choice for any investor seeking to spend money on American numismatics. Coins which have satisfactory firming and ideal surfaces will carry extra cash and boom in fee extra quick over time.
For creditors, this coin is an excellent addition to a vintage coin collection due to the fact it’s far a milestone in U.S. History. The low mintage and exceptional layout make it a unique piece so as to most effective preserve to realize in fee over time.
Conclusion
The 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar is a scarce and traditionally critical coin with extremely good funding value. With handiest 63,500 cash produced and only a few nevertheless in Mint State, it’s far a prized coin in the world of American numismatics. Whether you’re a pro collector or an investor searching out a unprecedented and valuable asset, the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar is an superb preference in an effort to probable appreciate in price through the years.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar so treasured?
The coin is precious because of its low mintage of 63,500 coins, its ancient importance, and its rarity in excessive-grade situation.
What is the most price for a 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar?
Coins in MS64 condition have sold for as plenty as $14,950 at public sale, and better-grade examples are extraordinarily rare.
