The 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof is a rare and historic U.S. coin that holds a special place among collectors. Produced shortly after the Civil War, it represents a time when the country was trying to rebuild and heal. This coin’s low mintage and beautiful design make it a valuable piece of American history. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique coin, from its historical background to its grading and auction value.
Historical Background of the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime
In 1866, the United States was coming out of the Civil War, with peace officially declared on August 20, 1866. The South faced challenges in rebuilding, adjusting to the end of slavery, and integrating freed Black citizens into society. To foster unity, the U.S. government introduced the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” on larger coins to offer a message of hope during this difficult time. However, the smaller half dime did not have enough space for the motto, so its design remained the same.
The 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof Design
The Liberty Seated design, created by James Barton Longacre, features Liberty seated with a shield. This symbolized protection and freedom, which were important messages during the Reconstruction era. The coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, with an alloy of 90% silver and 10% copper. Despite its small size, this half dime proof carries significant value and historical importance.
Coin Specifications
The following table summarizes the main specifications and details of the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof |
| Historical Context | Issued during Reconstruction after the Civil War |
| Symbolism | Represents liberty and the nation’s healing |
| Designer | James Barton Longacre |
| Obverse Design | Liberty seated with a shield |
| Reverse Design | Liberty Seated design without “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| Mint | Philadelphia |
| Mintage | 725 coins |
| Alloy | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 1.24 grams |
| Diameter | 15.9 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Quality | Proof |
| Grade Rarity | Most are Proof 63-64; rarest grades reach Proof 67 and Proof 68 |
| Notable Auction Sales | – NGC PF68: $14,100 (2012) – PCGS PR67+DCAM: $19,975 (2015) – PCGS PR66DCAM: $6,168.75 (2014) |
| Highest Known Grades | PCGS PR67+DCAM, NGC PF67UCAM |
| Noteworthy Collections | Bob R. Simpson Collection, Sun Tzu Collection |
| Special Characteristics | Some coins have cameo effects, creating a frosty main design with a brilliant background |
| Survival Estimate | Approximately 50% of the original mintage likely still exists |
| Significance for Collectors | Low mintage, post-Civil War symbolism, unique proof quality |
Grading and Value of the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime
The 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof is valuable not only because of its rarity but also due to its high grading standards. Coin grading companies like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) and PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) evaluate these coins carefully. Most examples are graded around Proof 63 or Proof 64, but a few reach higher grades like Proof 67 and Proof 68, which are very rare and valuable.
In terms of auction sales, some high-grade examples of this coin have sold for impressive amounts. For instance, a PCGS PR67+DCAM was sold for $19,975 in 2015. Coins with lower grades are still valuable but generally sell for less than the rare high-grade pieces.
Noteworthy Auction Sales
Some notable sales of the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime include:
- NGC PF68: Sold for $14,100 in 2012, with unique blue, apricot, and purple toning.
- PCGS PR67+DCAM: Part of the Bob R. Simpson Collection, sold for $19,975 in 2015 and auctioned again for $19,800 in 2020.
- PCGS PR66DCAM: Sold for $6,168.75 in 2014, notable for a distinct dark spot above “LIBERTY” on the shield.
These sales highlight the value of this coin, particularly when it features high grades or attractive cameo effects, making it appealing to serious collectors.
Conclusion
The 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof is a valuable and historic coin that represents a unique period in American history. Its low mintage of just 725, combined with its beautiful design and high grading standards, makes it a prized possession for collectors. For anyone interested in American numismatics or history, this coin is a fascinating piece that offers both aesthetic and historical appeal.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof considered rare?
The coin has a very low mintage of only 725 coins, making it scarce and valuable to collectors. Additionally, many of these coins remain in high-grade condition, adding to their appeal in the numismatic market.
What design features make this coin unique?
The Liberty Seated design, created by James Barton Longacre, shows Liberty seated with a shield symbolizing freedom and protection. It doesn’t include the “IN GOD WE TRUST” motto because the coin was too small to fit the additional text.
How much is the 1866 Liberty Seated Half Dime Proof worth?
Depending on its grade and condition, the coin’s value can vary. High-grade examples, such as Proof 67 or 68, have sold at auction for prices between $6,000 and $20,000.