-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 47324
Checkout
.jpg)
The Seated Liberty Half Dollar of 1875 is a classic example of mid-to-late 19th-century American silver coinage, a time when the United States was emerging from the Civil War and beginning to reassert itself economically. This coin represents one of the final years of the long-running Seated Liberty Half Dollar series, which spanned from 1839 to 1891. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the series witnessed numerous minor design modifications, minting experiments, and historical transitions. The 1875 issue stands out not only for its proximity to the end of the series but also for being minted in significant quantities across three different mints—Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Carson City. An 1875 Seated Liberty Half Dollar in About Uncirculated (AU) condition is particularly prized for its combination of sharp detail, soft luster, and minimal circulation wear.
Christian Gobrecht’s design for the Seated Liberty Half Dollar drew inspiration from neoclassical motifs that emphasized the ideals of liberty, unity, and strength. The obverse features the seated figure of Liberty facing left, draped in flowing robes. She holds a liberty pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her left hand and steadies a shield with her right. The shield is emblazoned with the word “LIBERTY” in raised letters across a diagonal banner, symbolizing her active defense of the nation. Thirteen stars representing the original colonies encircle the image along the rim, with the date “1875” positioned at the base. On coins in AU condition, the intricate folds of Liberty’s gown, her facial features, and the lettering on the shield remain sharply defined, though faint signs of friction may be visible on high points like her knee and breast.
The reverse of the 1875 Seated Liberty Half Dollar displays a powerful eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other. A Union shield covers the eagle’s chest, reinforcing themes of strength and unity. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOL.” surround the central motif. This reverse design was introduced in 1866 with the addition of the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” on a ribbon above the eagle, reflecting the country’s shifting moral and political identity after the Civil War. On AU examples, the feathers on the eagle’s wings and legs retain excellent detail, and the motto is usually fully legible, with only minor signs of handling on the eagle’s breast or talons.
Three mints contributed to the production of Seated Liberty Half Dollars in 1875. The Philadelphia Mint issued 10,817,600 pieces, making it the largest contributor by far. The San Francisco Mint produced 3,200,000 coins, while the Carson City Mint struck just 1,004,000 examples, the lowest of the three. The mintmark is found below the eagle on the reverse, with “S” for San Francisco and “CC” for Carson City; Philadelphia issues lack a mintmark. Coins from the Carson City Mint are considerably scarcer and more valuable, especially in higher grades. Regardless of origin, 1875 half dollars are generally well struck, and their widespread distribution reflected the economic normalization occurring in the post-war United States.
The Seated Liberty Half Dollar was struck in 90% silver and 10% copper, with a standard diameter of 30.6 millimeters and a weight of 12.44 grams. These specifications had remained consistent throughout most of the series. By 1875, the coin was widely used in commerce, though the increasing prominence of paper currency and trade dollars for overseas commerce was beginning to shift the role of silver coinage. Despite these changes, half dollars remained a significant part of daily transactions, and many saw extended use in circulation. This makes surviving AU examples relatively scarce, as most were worn down through regular handling or later melted during silver reclamation efforts in the 20th century.
Coins graded About Uncirculated represent a critical threshold for collectors seeking both detail and affordability. In AU condition, the 1875 Seated Liberty Half Dollar shows just trace wear on the highest points, with the rest of the design elements remaining bold and well preserved. Luster is often present across the fields, particularly in protected areas around the stars, shield, and eagle. Minor surface marks may be evident, but they do not significantly detract from the overall visual appeal. An AU coin offers nearly the full sharpness of an uncirculated example at a fraction of the price, making it an excellent choice for collectors building type sets or pursuing high-grade representatives of historical coinage.
The coin’s visual appeal is often enhanced by natural toning, which can range from light golden hues to deeper blues and purples along the rims. This toning, especially when even and undisturbed, adds a level of desirability among collectors who appreciate originality. Many AU examples exhibit attractive, soft patinas developed over decades of careful storage. Coins that remain uncleaned and unaltered are especially valued, as they maintain the integrity of their surfaces and provide insight into their long-term preservation. In the marketplace, AU examples that display minimal distractions, strong eye appeal, and good luster are quickly absorbed by collectors who recognize their historical and numismatic value.
The 1875 Seated Liberty Half Dollar carries a wealth of historical context. Its production occurred during the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant, a period marked by Reconstruction, economic turmoil, and westward expansion. The presence of the Carson City Mint on the coinage scene underscored the importance of the West in America’s economic future, while the consistent output from Philadelphia and San Francisco reflected the coin’s continuing utility across the nation. This coin is a tangible artifact from an era of transformation, bearing the marks of a country redefining its identity in the aftermath of a bloody internal conflict and preparing for industrial and geopolitical ascendancy.
The long lifespan of the Seated Liberty design—over five decades—ensures its importance in American numismatics. Its evolution across denominations and decades provides a roadmap of U.S. coinage development, including the integration of mottos, changes in production techniques, and the expansion of mint facilities. The 1875 half dollar occupies a critical position near the close of this era, making it an essential piece for collectors focused on 19th-century silver coinage. Its availability in AU condition offers an appealing blend of preservation and affordability, striking a balance between circulated charm and near-uncirculated sharpness.
The 1875 Seated Liberty Half Dollar in About Uncirculated condition offers collectors a rich combination of historical depth, classic design, and quality preservation. Whether struck at Philadelphia, San Francisco, or Carson City, each coin is a lasting testament to the artistry and functionality of 19th-century U.S. Mint output. The detailed engraving of Liberty and the eagle, the presence of the post-Civil War motto, and the scarcity of high-grade survivors all contribute to the coin’s desirability. For both seasoned numismatists and new enthusiasts, this coin offers a rewarding opportunity to own a well-preserved example of American silver history, crafted at a time of national renewal and expansion.