1842 Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollar - Small Date

Coin Details

Auction Record

$77,000 PR65 05-01-1998 David Akers

Description

The 1842 Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollar - Small Date is a proof half dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Seated Liberty Half Dollars 1839-1891 series. With a mintage of only 10, this is an extremely rare issue. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole surmounted by a Phrygian liberty cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right, while the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Designed by Thomas Sully/Christian Gobrecht. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 13.36 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #6386. The Seated Liberty Half Dollar was produced over more than 50 years across multiple subtypes reflecting weight changes and motto additions. Carson City Mint issues are especially sought after. The 1878-S is a condition rarity, and the 1853-O "No Arrows" is extremely rare with only four known.