This is a fabulously beautiful pre 1860 proof issue with the most amzing toning. Toning so amazing, that PCGS thinks it may have been manufactured and possibly (they do say "questionable, so they themselves are not positive) not naturally occuring. I disagree but you can be the judge. One thing most can agree...this is an amazingly beautiful coin. With only 800 coins originally struck in proof, most didn't survive as pre civil war proof coins simply didn't fare well during the war years. PCGS GENUINE PROOF MINT STATE DETAILS. EXCEPTIONAL!

The United States Seated Liberty Half Dollar coinage refers to a series of coins minted by the United States Mint from 1839 to 1891. Here are some key points about the Seated Liberty Half Dollar coinage:

  1. Introduction: The Seated Liberty Half Dollar was introduced in 1839, replacing the earlier Capped Bust Half Dollar series. The design was created by Christian Gobrecht, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time.


  3. Design: The obverse (front) of the Seated Liberty Half Dollar featured a seated figure of Liberty holding a shield with her right hand and a pole with a Phrygian cap in her left hand. The reverse (back) typically depicted a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, with a shield on its breast. The eagle was surrounded by a wreath, and the denomination appeared below.


  5. Varieties: Throughout its production, there were several design variations and minor modifications made to the Seated Liberty Half Dollar series. These variations included changes to the size and positioning of the lettering, as well as minor adjustments to the design elements.


  7. Composition: The Seated Liberty Half Dollar was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a weight of 12.44 grams. This composition was consistent with other silver coinage of the time.


  9. Mintage: The Seated Liberty Half Dollar was minted in various quantities throughout its production period. Mintage figures varied depending on factors such as demand, economic conditions, and the need for circulating coinage.


  11. End of Production: The production of the Seated Liberty Half Dollar ceased in 1891, when it was replaced by the Barber Half Dollar series. The design change was part of a broader effort by the United States Mint to update and modernize its coinage.


  13. Collectibility: Seated Liberty Half Dollars are popular among coin collectors and numismatists, particularly those interested in 19th-century United States coinage. Collectors often seek to acquire examples of Seated Liberty Half Dollars in various conditions, including uncirculated and proof specimens.

Overall, the United States Seated Liberty Half Dollar coinage represents an important chapter in the history of U.S. coinage, reflecting the country's growth and development during the 19th century, as well as the evolution of coin designs during that time.