1859-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar (50c)

The 1859-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar hails from the New Orleans Mint during a fascinating period just before the Civil War. With a mintage of 2.8 million pieces, this issue is considerably scarcer than its Philadelphia counterpart. As tensions between North and South increased, many of these coins saw heavy circulation throughout the Southern states, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable.

This PCGS XF40 example displays impressive quality for the grade with even, medium-gray toning throughout. The surfaces show honest wear consistent with the grade, yet retain sharp definition in Liberty's drapery and the eagle's feathers. The fields are remarkably clean for a circulated New Orleans mint product, displaying minimal marks or abrasions. The original mint luster still peeks through in the protected areas, enhancing the eye appeal of this handsome pre-Civil War half dollar.