1860-O Liberty Seated Half Dime
The 1860-O Liberty Seated half dime is a rare and highly sought-after coin minted at the New Orleans Mint as part of the Liberty Seated coin series. This series, designed by Christian Gobrecht, represents a significant era in U.S. coinage history. The 1860-O half dime is particularly valued due to its low mintage and scarcity in mint condition.
Historical context
The 1860-O half dime was minted in the final year of half-dime production at the New Orleans Mint before the outbreak of the Civil War, which temporarily halted operations. With a mintage of only 40,000, this coin holds a special place in numismatic history, especially as examples in mint condition are exceedingly rare.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 15.9 millimeters |
| Denomination | 0.05 USD |
| Gross Weight | 1.24 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | ~0.0359 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Diameter | 15.9 millimeters |
| Thickness | ~0.7 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | 10.2–10.4 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $625 - $80000 |
Coin description
The obverse of the 1860-O Liberty Seated half dime features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a Phrygian cap atop. The reverse shows an intricate wreath encircling the denomination "HALF DIME" with the "O" mintmark for New Orleans beneath it. The small mintmark is a notable feature of this coin, reflecting the style of the dies shipped to New Orleans.
Cultural and
numismatic significance
The 1860-O Liberty Seated half dime is highly significant among collectors due to its rarity, historical context, and connection to the New Orleans Mint. It is a key date coin in the Liberty Seated series, sought after by both collectors of U.S. coinage and enthusiasts of pre-Civil War history.
Numismatic value
As of October 2024, the value of the 1860-O half dime ranges from $625 in circulated condition to $16,000 for well-preserved specimens. Uncirculated examples can fetch as much as $80,000 at auction, making this coin a prized possession for serious numismatists.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your dimes, including their silver content (for pre-1965 dimes) and their numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.
Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Draped Bust dimes, Mercury dimes, or Roosevelt dimes, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.
We buy all types of U.S. dimes, including Draped Bust, Liberty Seated, Barber, Mercury, and Roosevelt dimes, and other collectible dimes. Whether your dimes are valuable for their silver content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.
There’s no obligation to sell your dimes after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.
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