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The 1849 Seated Liberty Half Dime in Good (G) condition is a well-worn but historically significant coin from the early-to-mid 19th century. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin reflects the economic activity and daily commerce of pre-Civil War America. The Seated Liberty Half Dime series, minted from 1837 to 1873, played an essential role in small transactions at a time when hard currency was in short supply and fractional silver coinage was vital to commerce. Though a coin in Good condition exhibits heavy circulation wear, it still retains key identifying features that link it directly to this important period in U.S. numismatic history.
The obverse of the 1849 Seated Liberty Half Dime features Christian Gobrecht’s classic design of Liberty seated on a rock, facing left. She holds a pole topped with a Phrygian liberty cap in one hand and rests her other hand on a shield inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Around the rim are thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The date “1849” appears at the bottom. In Good condition, most of the intricate detail in Liberty’s figure, face, and shield is worn smooth, and only the bold outline of Liberty remains visible. The stars and the date are typically worn but still readable. Rim wear is common, and portions of the edge may blend into the fields of the coin, especially where the highest points of the design have flattened completely from use.
The reverse of the coin presents a simple and elegant wreath of laurel encircling the denomination “HALF DIME,” with the legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” forming a circular border along the rim. In a Good grade example, the wreath is heavily worn, with the leaves generally flat and lacking interior detail. Still, the overall shape of the wreath remains intact, and the denomination at the center is clearly legible. The surrounding legend is often weak in parts, but generally identifiable with careful inspection. The field may show shallow scratches or circulation marks, but the coin remains structurally sound without damage that compromises its readability or integrity.
The 1849 Seated Liberty Half Dime was struck only at the Philadelphia Mint and does not bear a mintmark. The total mintage for this year was approximately 1,060,800 coins, a moderate figure for the series. Although this is not among the rarest dates of the series, surviving examples in collectible condition are appreciated by type collectors, especially as part of the no-mintmark Philadelphia run. Coins in lower grades like Good often served in daily commerce for decades, and the wear on such pieces is a testament to their usefulness in the 19th-century economy.
Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, the half dime weighs 1.34 grams and has a diameter of just 15.9 millimeters. It features a reeded edge and was struck using closed collar dies. The small size of the coin makes it especially prone to wear, and many examples exhibit surface softening and edge fading even after limited use. Despite its small stature, the coin played a large role in commerce, being commonly used for small purchases, postage, and change-making in a time before widespread banking and coin distribution.
The Seated Liberty Half Dime series underwent several changes over its production span. The 1849 issue belongs to the "Stars on Obverse" subtype (1838–1859), which followed the original no-stars version introduced in 1837. This subtype is characterized by the 13 stars encircling Liberty and the relatively small size of the denomination on the reverse compared to later designs. The design reflects neoclassical ideals popular in American art during the mid-19th century and is credited to U.S. Mint engraver Christian Gobrecht, whose work on Seated Liberty coinage is foundational in American numismatics.
In Good condition, the 1849 Seated Liberty Half Dime serves as a budget-friendly option for collectors looking to acquire an example of early U.S. silver coinage. While lacking sharpness and high visual detail, coins in this grade offer authenticity, age, and a strong historical narrative. The visible date, denomination, and basic design outline make the coin identifiable and meaningful, especially for those assembling full date runs or affordable type sets. Many collectors enjoy these lower-grade coins for their connection to real commerce—tokens of thousands of hands and countless everyday transactions.
The coin’s condition reflects long circulation, and as such, it may exhibit darkened toning, edge wear, or minor surface marks. However, coins in this grade are typically free from major damage like holes, bends, or corrosion if sold as collectible specimens. Their affordability makes them excellent entry points for new collectors or educators seeking real historical artifacts to help tell the story of America’s monetary development.
Whether held for its silver content, collected as part of a historical U.S. series, or valued as a piece of American history, the 1849 Seated Liberty Half Dime in Good condition provides a tangible link to the past. It represents not only the artistry of the U.S. Mint in its formative years but also the practical use of silver coinage in everyday life during a period of national growth and transformation. For collectors who appreciate the story behind each coin as much as the condition, this well-circulated half dime holds enduring charm and significance.