The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime

1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime

The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is a notable coin from the rich tapestry of American numismatics. Struck in the San Francisco Mint, this particular issue is valued by collectors for its historical significance and relative scarcity. Below you’ll find the technical specifications and mintage details that define this coin’s unique place in U.S. minting history.

Coin Specifications

Mintage Details

In 1864, less than 50,000 Liberty Seated Half Dimes were produced at the San Francisco Mint, making them relatively hard to find today. This limited mintage contributes significantly to the coin’s valued status among collectors.

Half Dime Values for the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime

Understanding the value of an 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime involves considering various factors including its grade, demand in the market, and historical significance. The listed values below are approximate retail ranges and can vary depending on the grading service, auction sales, and current market dynamics.

Factors That Influence the Value

Mint Mark and Mintage

The 1864-S half dime was minted at the San Francisco Mint, identified by the “S” mintmark. Its relative scarcity compared to other mintmarks can contribute to a higher value.

Condition and Grade

The Sheldon Scale, ranging from 1 to 70, is standard for determining a coin’s condition. Higher grades usually equate to higher values, especially for uncirculated examples.

Metal Composition

The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, which is important for metal value but often secondary to numismatic value.

Errors and Varieties

Coins with verified mint errors, such as die chips or doubling, often command premiums in the numismatic market. These unique attributes can significantly impact a coin’s desirability and thus its value.

By staying informed about the factors mentioned, collectors can better understand the market dynamics and what makes each piece unique and valuable.

Rarity and Errors of the Half Dime

The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is a treasured piece for numismatic collectors, not only for its historical context but also for its rarity and notable mint errors. These errors attract collectors who appreciate anomalies that provide a snapshot of minting practices of the era.

• Double Die Obverse: A well-documented error with doubled inscriptions markedly on the obverse. This occurs during the hubbing process when a die receives multiple misaligned impressions. Estimated Value: $1,000 – $3,500. Rarity Level: Rare.

• Clipped Planchet: Due to improper planchet cutting, coins exhibit clipped edges. It affects the overall appearance and can significantly impact value. Estimated Value: $200 – $500. Rarity Level: Uncommon.

• Off-Center Strike: Coins that are struck off-center can range from mild to dramatic, with some of the design elements missing. Estimated Value: $350 – $1,200+. Rarity Level: Rare.

• Lamination Errors: These occur when impurities cause metal to separate or peel. Though less dramatic, they are sought after. Estimated Value: $150 – $400. Rarity Level: Common.

Price Impact Summary

Errors can vary greatly in value based on their visibility and uniqueness. Minor errors like small die chips may add modest premiums, attracting specialists who appreciate these subtle distinctions. More dramatic errors often command higher premiums from enthusiastic collectors willing to pay for rare visual oddities.

High Mint State grades considerably enhance the value of error coins, as pristine conditions highlight minting faults. Authentication by reputable services such as PCGS or NGC provides credibility and assurance of quality, significantly impacting the coin’s market worth.

Mint Marks & Mintage of the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime

Mint marks and their corresponding mintages play a crucial role in determining the value of the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime,. This particular coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, denoted by the “S” mintmark, which is located on the reverse side beneath the wreath.

The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is notable for its low mintage, with only 230,000 coins produced. This limited production contributes significantly to its scarcity and desirability among collectors. During this era, the San Francisco Mint was primarily focused on producing larger denomination coins, which further limited the half dime mintage numbers in comparison to other mints.

Mintage Figures

Collectors often consider both the mint mark and the mintage when evaluating the potential worth of a coin. Understanding these factors can provide valuable insights into the coin’s rarity and appeal in the numismatic market.

Half Dime Values Facts and Trivia

Design Details

• Obverse: The obverse of the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime features the iconic Liberty Seated design. Lady Liberty is shown seated with a shield in her left hand, symbolizing protection, and holding a pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her right, representing freedom.
• Reverse: The reverse design depicts a simple and elegant wreath encircling the denomination “HALF DIME.”
• Inscriptions: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “LIBERTY,” “HALF DIME,” “1864”
• Year: 1864

Release Information

• Release Date: Originally issued in 1864
• Series Context: As part of the Liberty Seated series, this coin is celebrated for its intricate design and historical significance, bridging the antebellum and post-Civil War eras.
• Historical Significance: The 1864-S edition gains its prominence and intrigue from being minted during the American Civil War, representing a period of significant strife and transformation in U.S. history.

Quick Facts

• The 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime, minted in San Francisco, provides a glimpse into the bustling Mint activities during a challenging time in U.S. history.
• Numismatist Joseph B. Akin designed the Liberty Seated motif, which prominently features throughout U.S. coinage in this era.
• As a reflection of its time, the half dime’s small denomination made it an everyday-use coin during the 19th century.

Collecting the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime

1. Educate Yourself on Historical Context: Understanding the conditions under which the 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime was minted is crucial. This San Francisco-minted coin embodies the Civil War era, making it a piece of American history.

2. Learn to Grade Coins: Familiarize yourself with grading standards, such as the Sheldon Scale, to assess the coin’s condition accurately. This knowledge helps in distinguishing the subtle differences that can significantly impact a coin’s value.

3. Verify Authenticity: Always seek to purchase coins that are certified by recognized grading services like PCGS or NGC. Certification certifies authenticity and can protect your investment by ensuring you’re not acquiring forgeries.

4. Join Collector Communities: Engaging with numismatic forums and community groups can offer insights and tips from seasoned collectors. Platforms like the Coin ID Scanner App for iOS and Android can also be a valuable resource for identifying and valuing coins.

5. Focus on Quality Over Quantity: For long-term collections, choose high-grade examples over accumulations of lower-quality coins. A single MS67 or higher grade 1864-S Liberty Seated Half Dime can be more rewarding than several lower-grade specimens.

6. Understand Market Trends: Keeping an eye on auction results and market trends aids in recognizing the ideal time to buy or sell based on pricing trends and coin scarcity.

7. Document Your Collection: Maintaining a detailed catalog with purchase details of your coins remains crucial. This record not only helps with insurance purposes but also benefits when sharing achievements within collecting circles.