1844 Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$22,913 PR62 05-27-2021 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

The 1844 Proof Seated Liberty Half Dollar 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 8, 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 #6388. 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.