United States 1861-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar: A Coin with a Divided History

United States 1861-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar A Coin with a Divided History

The 1861-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is one of the most historically intriguing coins ever struck by the New Orleans Mint. This coin is unique because it was produced under three different authorities: the United States federal government, the state of Louisiana, and the Confederate States of America (CSA). As a result, the 1861-O half … Read more

A Sag Harbor Physician’s Hoard of Capped Bust Half Dollars

A Sag Harbor Physician’s Hoard of Capped Bust Half Dollars

Numismatic history is filled with fascinating stories of collectors and the treasures they leave behind. One such tale centers on a physician from Sag Harbor, New York, who amassed an extraordinary collection of Capped Bust Half Dollars. This hoard, steeped in mystery and rich with historical significance, stands as a testament to the enduring allure … Read more

Overall and Comparative Rarity Analysis of Dahlonega Gold Coinage

Overall and Comparative Rarity Analysis of Dahlonega Gold Coinage

The gold coins minted at the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia hold a special place in the hearts of numismatists, celebrated for their historical significance, unique Southern origin, and low mintages. Operating from 1838 to 1861, the Dahlonega Mint produced coins exclusively in gold denominations, including $1, $2.50 (Quarter Eagle), $3, and $5 (Half Eagle). The … Read more

What Were the Odds? A Rare 1862 Seated Liberty Dollar in Mint State

What Were the Odds A Rare 1862 Seated Liberty Dollar in Mint State

The 1862 Seated Liberty Dollar stands as a relic of American history, embodying the turbulence of the Civil War and the artistry of 19th-century coinage. While millions of silver dollars were minted during the Seated Liberty series (1840–1873), encountering an 1862 example in Mint State is extraordinarily rare. These coins, especially in higher grades, are … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece

The 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece is one of the most desirable coins in U.S. numismatics, owing to its low mintage, historical significance, and unique design. Produced during a short-lived experiment with a denomination between the dime and quarter, the 20-cent coin remains a target for counterfeiters attempting to capitalize on its rarity and value. Learning … Read more

The Mystery of the 1964-D Peace Dollar

The Mystery of the 1964-D Peace Dollar

The 1964-D Peace Dollar is one of the most enigmatic coins in U.S. numismatic history. Though it was authorized and briefly struck, none of these coins are known to exist today—legally, at least. This coin represents a fascinating mix of politics, economics, and intrigue, captivating collectors and historians alike. A Coin Born from Controversy The … Read more

New Die Variety for the 1843-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar

For collectors of Liberty Seated coinage, the discovery of a new die variety is always an exciting event. The 1843-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar has recently captured the attention of numismatists with the identification of a previously undocumented die variety, further enriching the lore of this series. This discovery sheds light on the minting practices … Read more

1857 Braided Hair Half Cent: A Collector’s Guide

1857 Braided Hair Half Cent A Collector’s Guide

The 1857 Braided Hair Half Cent stands as a significant piece in U.S. numismatic history, not only as one of the last half cents ever struck but also as a symbol of a changing economy. The half cent denomination, first minted in 1793, played an essential role in early American commerce. By 1857, however, its … Read more

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: A Popular Yet Controversial Coin

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent A Popular Yet Controversial Coin

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and numismatists. It is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics, boasting a unique combination of rarity, historical importance, and controversy. This small copper coin was the first of its kind to bear the image of a president, as … Read more

Coin Profiles – The 1850 $5 Moffat Gold Coin – A Curious Liberty

Coin Profiles – The 1850 $5 Moffat Gold Coin – A Curious Liberty

The 1850 $5 Moffat gold coin is an iconic relic of California’s Gold Rush era, embodying the resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit of the time. Struck by the private mint of Moffat & Co., this gold coin fills a unique niche in the history of U.S. coinage, standing as a testament to the transitional period between … Read more