The 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar is a valuable and sought-after coin among collectors. This silver dollar, minted by the Philadelphia Mint, features the Liberty Seated design, which is considered one of the most iconic coin designs in U.S. history. With its rich history and detailed design, it has become a collector’s favorite. Let’s dive into the history, design, and key details of this remarkable coin.
History of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar
In 1859, the U.S. Mint resumed the production of silver dollar coins, after a pause in 1858. This period also saw significant advancements in the mining industry, especially in places like Arizona, where silver mining was booming. Most of the silver dollars minted in 1859 were shipped to India and China, and they were used in trade. These coins were minted in 13 deliveries, from April 18 to December 10, totaling 256,500 coins. Additionally, 800 Proof coins were made for collectors.
The Design of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar
The design of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar is attributed to Christian Gobrecht. The obverse (front) shows Lady Liberty sitting on a rock. She holds a pole with a liberty cap in one hand and a shield with the word “LIBERTY” in the other. Thirteen stars surround her, representing the original thirteen U.S. colonies, and the date 1859 is at the bottom.
On the reverse (back), the eagle is prominently displayed with wings spread, holding an olive branch and arrows in its claws. The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are inscribed at the top, and the denomination “ONE DOL.” is at the bottom.
1859 Liberty Seated Dollar Market and Value
The 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar is highly valued in the numismatic world. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition, especially those graded MS65 or higher, can sell for thousands of dollars. For example, a coin graded MS65 has sold for as much as $10,925. The coin is rare in higher grades, with only a few MS66+ examples available. The Proof versions, being rarer, also fetch high prices, with some reaching over $20,000.
Notable Specifications and Key Facts
Here are the important specifications for the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1859 |
| Denomination | One Dollar (USD) |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 256,500 |
| Alloy | .900 Silver, .100 Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.10 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obv Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| Rev Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Conclusion
The 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar is a coin with a lot of history and a detailed design that makes it a favorite among collectors. With a relatively low mintage of only 256,500 coins, and even fewer in mint condition, this coin is a valuable piece for anyone interested in numismatics. The unique design and historical significance make it a sought-after addition to any collection, especially for those who appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of older American coins.
FAQ’s
What is the value of an 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar?
The value of an 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar can range from around $2,000 for coins in About Uncirculated (AU) condition to over $20,000 for higher-grade Proof coins. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition can also fetch significant amounts, with MS65 examples selling for over $10,000.
How many 1859 Liberty Seated Dollars were minted?
A total of 256,500 1859 Liberty Seated Dollars were minted. This includes both the business strikes used for circulation and the 800 Proof coins made for collectors.
What is the design of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar?
The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock holding a pole and a shield, surrounded by 13 stars. The reverse depicts an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the top and “ONE DOL.” at the bottom.