1885-O Arrows Seated Liberty Half Dollar

The 1855-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar represents an interesting year for New Orleans coinage, as the mint was dealing with yellow fever outbreaks that affected production throughout the year. Despite these challenges, the mint produced 2,696,000 half dollars, though few survive in mint state condition today.

This MS61 example displays impressive album-style toning in deep blues and russet hues around the peripheries. The strike is bold for a New Orleans product, with sharp definition in the central devices and stars. The fields show expected light marks for the grade but retain strong prooflike reflectivity, especially evident on the reverse. The eye appeal significantly exceeds what's typically seen at this grade level.