All collectors cherish the 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar. A memento of prolific industrialization, this coin was struck in the background of sectional fights and civil tension, earning it a position of unmatched historical significance and currency with numismatists. The Liberty Seated Dollar of 1856 was given to the U.S. Mint’s treasury with some precious metal and finally struck into plain coinage, but it does not easily identify the coin at all. The exuberance of learning how to identify the coin, from every-minute detail on the front and back payements, loops, and above all, delicate date, mesmerizes collectors as well as investors and history lovers. This article lays bare every required piece to thoroughly acquaint much cited dollar in American history; 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar with an historical background, identification methods, the design of the coin, authentication procedures, and info on beautiful and high-dollar sales. Whether a beginner or a seasoned coin collector, this guide will be instructive and indeed open your eyes to that rare and well-coveted piece in U.S. history, which is the silver dollar presented here.
The dollar, beside being a coin only, forms part of pre-war American history with fingers tracing the lifeblood of freedom in the free world. I will do well to see one indeed, if you are collecting for history, investing in high-dollar coins, or simply exploring numismatic issues. It is indeed rewarding to identify this scarce dollar with some understanding and tools and professional help that the student may seek.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mintage | Approximately 63,500 pieces minted at the Philadelphia Mint. |
| Metal Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper. |
| Weight & Diameter | 26.73 grams; 38.1 mm diameter. |
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty pole and shield marked “LIBERTY.” |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle holding olive branch and arrows. Lacks the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” |
| Mint Mark | No mint mark (Philadelphia only). |
| Common Strike Issues | Weak details on Liberty’s head and stars 8-10; eagle’s right leg often weak. |
| Estimated Value Range | $450 (VG-8) to $5,000+ (Mint State); Proof coins can exceed $7,000. |
| Authentication Tips | Verify weight, dimensions, edge reeding; consult PCGS, NGC, or ANACS for professional certification. |
| Official Coin Info | PCGS CoinFacts – 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar |
A Brief History of the Liberty Seated Dollar of 1856
This Liberty Seated Dollar series was minted from 1840 until 1873, and the 1856 issue belonged to the earlier “No Motto” subtype which did not carry the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the reverse; it was added only starting from 1866.
Minted only at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin was produced in a mintage of 63,500 in 1856. Most of those were later melted, exported, or lost, making this particular year notoriously hard to find in high-grade conditions today.
This combined with the unique artistry of the design by engraver Christian Gobrecht attributes the coin with a hefty historical and collector appeal.
How Is One to Know His or Her Liberty Seated Dollar?
Understand the Design Features
Obverse (Front):
- Central Figure: Lady Liberty seated on a rock, facing her left.
- Liberty Pole: She holds a pole with a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom.
- Shield: In her right hand rests a shield inscribed “LIBERTY”.
- Thirteen Stars: Seven to her left, six to her right, encircling the top half of the coin.
- Date: Centered and bold beneath Liberty.
Reverse (Back):
- Eagle Design: A heraldic eagle with wings fully spread, holding an olive branch in one claw and arrows in the other.
- No Motto: There is no “IN GOD WE TRUST” above the eagle.
- Denomination: “ONE DOL.” beneath the eagle.
- No Mint Mark: Since everyone was minted in Philadelphia, none will appear.
Know Physical Specifications
- Weight: 26.73 g;
- Diameter: 38.1 mm;
- Edge: Reeded (with vertical grooves);
- Any deviations in physical specifications will raise a red flag for possible counterfeit.
3. Look for Common Striking Weaknesses
Several of the 1856 dollars were tarnished by the minting technology of the day, not being struck with full sharpness. This can serve as an authentication clue:
- Obverse Weaknesses: Liberty’s head and stars 8-10 may appear weak or flat.
- Reverse Weaknesses: The right leg of the eagle is typically weak.
While these flaws might be regarded as common and by no means necessarily signs of damage, they nonetheless could help differentiate the real coin from an overly sharp fake.
4. Authenticate the Coin
A. Physical Tests
- Digital scales and calipers should be used to account for the weight and diameter.
- Assess the consistency of the reeded edge of the coin-counters might irregularly forge the edge.
B. Die Characteristics
- Collectors often apply die varieties (specific imperfections or styles unique to individual dies) in helping to authenticate coins.
- Some known 1856 Liberty Seated dollars have visible die cracks or alignment peculiarities.
C. Get It Graded
Customers should direct their coin to leading evaluation companies including:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS);
- Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC);
- American Numismatic Association Certification Service (ANACS).
The examination and grading of coins depends on modern technical methods utilized by professional teams in these corporations.
How Much Is an 1856 Liberty Seated Dollar Worth?
The market value of a Liberty Seated Dollar from 1856 extends from minimal amounts to significant sums because of how rare a specific coin and its condition make it.
| Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Very Good-8 (VG-8) | $450 – $600 |
| Fine to VF | $700 – $1,200 |
| Extremely Fine | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Mint State (MS) | $3,500 – $5,000+ |
| Proof (PR) | $7,000 – $15,000+ |
Coins with good strikings, clean surfaces, and confirmed certification tend to bring the highest prices at auction.
Collectors’ and Investors’ Tips
Avoid Raw Coins from Unverified Sellers: Unless you’re experienced, stick to certified coins.
- Search for Provenance: Coins that have a provenance of ownership (particularly from distinguished collections) retain their value better.
- Conservation Properly: Keep in acid-free mounts or certified slabs in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
- Stay Current: Institutions such as Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers regularly offer Liberty Seated Dollars—monitor them for price trends.