Liberty Seated Half Dollars

1856 to 1891

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Liberty Seated Half Dollar varieties are attributed using Bill Bugert's multiple volume "A Register of Liberty Seated Half Dollar Varieties" and will be referenced as WB. Variety collectors are urged to add these Registers to their numismatic libraries.

There are 44 Coins for Sale. Most recent coin added on November 19, 2023

Photo Date Grade TPG Variety GFRC Rating Price Description Buy
Seated 50C 1856O 1856-O
Doubled Date
MS64 PCGS
82121536
WB-102 WB-9
Choice $2400 New November 5! Doubled Date, Satiny Cartwheel Luster, Fully Struck, Accurately Graded, Oregon Beaver Collection. Consignor Price Reduction - A premium Mint State offering from the Oregon Beaver Collection with boldly repunched date. The initial date punch was entered with a pronounced upward slant, then partially effaced and correctly re-entered. The variety is not labeled on the PCGS insert. Surfaces are choice with medium golden-brown and jade-green surrounding stars and date area. A lustrous and boldly struck near Gem example with splendidly mark-free fields and devices. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1857O 1857-O
VF25 PCGS
19616246

Choice $175 Thick Crusty Golden-Gray Patina, Steely Fields, Choice Surfaces, New Orleans Collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder.
Seated 50C 1858 1858
MS64 PCGS
29710258

Choice $1750 Granular Frosted Luster, Vibrant Cartwheels, Light Gold, Near-Gem, Newtown Collection. How I enjoy handling Mint State silver coinage with granular frosted luster and light toning. This Newtown duplicate offers "sparkling" luster during angled light viewing along with pleasing cartwheel action. Overall coloring is a light gold with deeper hues at the rim. Strike is essentially complete with only the left leg eagle feathers being partial. A near-gem with all the right visual credentials. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder.
Seated 50C 1858 1858
AU50
PCGS
31976808

Choice HOLD
$320
Olive-Gray, Frosted Luster, Choice Surfaces, Classic CAC Approved Circulated "Look". This well preserved 1858 Seated half could be the poster child for the originality that is in favor at CAC. This example is a fully choice specimen with frosted luster during bright light inspection along with an obverse color transition to olive-gold. The reverse is toned an even light gray with hints of peripheral gold. Fields are pristine. Need I say more? Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder.
Seated 50C 1858O 1858-O
EF45 PCGS
39191262
WB-6
Choice $795 Quadrupled Second 8, Residual Frosted Luster, Choice Surfaces, Newtown Collection. An important 1858-O die variety with at least quadrupled punching of the second 8 digit. Remnants of prior punches are seen in the upper loop, between the based and top loop, and two additional punches to the right of the digit. Were late hours and/or alcohol a factor here? Not only is the variety exciting, but the host piece is fully choice. Though certified as an EF45, this half dollar strike presents substantial amounts of mint frost and resulting luster. Surfaces are 100% original with a light natural gray patina. Worthy of a CAC submission by the new owner as this piece has many attributes of those pieces graded AU50. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1858O 1858-O
AU53 PCGS
34971000
WB-7
Choice $480 Choice Original, Newtown Collection. Seated half dollar die variety specialist will note the errant 8 digit found within the base of the rock that marks the WB-7 die pairing. A choice example with steely reflective fields that align well with the certified grade. Obverse pewter-gray contains additional shades of embedded gold. The reverse skin is lighter gray which allows increased luster and cartwheel action. Surfaces a fully choice and unabraded. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1859O 1859-O
MS63
PCGS
26507636

Choice $3000 Choice Original, Saw Mill Run Collection.. Frosty, marbled luster hosts a spray of chestnut patina atop gold-olive color in the fields. Original silver shade hides in the protected areas, more so on the obverse. Eagles claws to the left blend together while those to the right are sharp. The flash easily penetrates the medium skin, and the overall eye appeal is more compelling than revealed by the images. CAC has approved 66 pieces total, with ten coins finer. The CAC guide value is $2,400. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1859O 1859-O
AU58
PCGS
43265543

Choice HOLD
$1050
New November 19! Near-Gem Original, Twin Lakes Collection.. The Twin Lakes consignor, king of the PCGS AU58 CAC kingdom, graces his loyal subjects with this Halloween-themed New Orleans piece. Burnt orange and fire-engine red fills the rims, leading to rich autumn and tan colors in the fields. A quick flip reveals original luster, most apparent in the protected areas. This is a nicely struck piece, with exceptional definition in the eagle claws. The CAC census notes 66 coins total, with 15 pieces in Mint State, and assigns a value of $686 in AU58. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2023) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1859O 1859-O
AU53 NGC
3586801003

Choice $425 Steely Fields, Brown-Gray Patina, Unquestionably Choice, Sooner Collection.. Steely fields and brownish-gray toning are immediately evident for this 1859 dated half. A 10x check revealed pristine fields that are sure to delight. Strike is typical for the issue. The New Orleans mint produced 2,834,000 Seated halves that year leading to potential as a type coin. Whether working on circulated halves set or seeking type, this Sooner Collection offering should fit in nicely. Housed in newer NGC holder with edge view insert.
Seated 50C 1859S 1859-S
AU58 PCGS
15655519
WB-8
R4
Original $1650 Low Mintage San Francisco Date, Large S, Bold Frosty Cartwheel Luster, Fully Struck, Palos Verdes Collecton. . 1859 San Francisco strikes are not as rare as their predecessor date due to a mintage of 566,000. However, locating AU58 examples is always a fun collecting challenge and will take patience. This is an important example to consider given the brilliant frosty cartwheel luster once placed under a bright light. Surfaces are strictly original with faint gold hues near the rims. All devices are well struck including rounded stars, deeply impressed hair curls on Liberty and all eagle feathers on the reverse. Blemish wise, there are a few faint lines in the left obverse field between Liberty's arm and the stars. Though not distracting, these are mentioned for accuracy. The WB-8 die variety has an R4 rarity rating per the Bugert Register on San Francisco struck Liberty Seated halves. There has been no CAC review by the consignor. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) with standard ring insert.
Seated 50C 1860O 1860-O
AU58 PCGS
34879830
WB-7
Choice HOLD
$690
Popular Eagle Laying Egg Variety, Brilliant Frosted Luster, Vibrant Cartwheels, Choice Overall, Palos Verdes Collection. A compelling example of the 1860-O WB-7 Eagle Laying Egg variety as the O mintmark is very high and touching the left olive branch stem. Consistent with other Palos Verdes lots, this piece sports brilliant frosted luster and vibrant cartwheels. This piece is frosty white with a touch of gold at the date. Strike is essentially complete with bold motifs and just of hint of weakness at the reverse denomination. Surfaces are well preserved and choice. A cool die variety at a competitive offer price. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1860S 1860-S
AU50
PCGS
30451109
WB-1
Choice $1325 New November 19! Near-Gem Original.. Silver-gray color fills both sides of this early San Francisco half, with original Mint bloom evident in the protected areas around the stars and legend. Dusty charcoal patina resides at the peripheries, a touch more so on the reverse. WB-1, with a low date and tiny die lump at the top of 1. The CAC population is 22 coins in all grades and the CAC price guide value is $624 in AU50, an exceptional value given the scarcity of this coin in original preservation. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1861 1861
MS64 PCGS
25359484

Choice $2350 Iridescent Rainbow Toning, Partially Mirrored Fields, Gorgeous Bright Light Colors . A portion of the Liberty Seated coinage population, especially proofs, will be found darker natural toning. These pieces typically "light up" when placed under a bright light as is the case for this near-gem 1861 Seated half. In hand inspection is consistent with my images. However, just tiliting this piece into lighting changes the visual dynamics. The fields have mirror reflectance that exposes all rainbow hues. The obverse has the classic ring pattern with progress rose, aquamarine, blue, and gold progression to the rims. The reverse toning is quite similar with a bit more center rose. I like to describe this type of toning as "iridenscent" due to the sparking intertction with the colors. Strike is complete with unabraded fields. Great for type. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder.
Seated 50C 1861 1861
MS64 NGC
3609725004

Choice $2125 New November 5! Crusty Choice Original, Attractive Patina, Accurately Graded, Oregon Beaver Collection. Consignor Price Reduction - Years ago, I quickly grow bored with frosty white Liberty Seated coins and learned to appreciate lightly crusty Mint State coins that were strictly original. GFRC continues that tradition with this 1861 Seated half that is toned with a crusty gray skin along with blue hues. Rose, aquamarine and golden toning rings characterize the reverse and are accentuated by brilliant background luster. Strike is deeply impressed with rounded stars and complete hair curls along with crisply defined eagle feathers and claws. A 10x check could only locate one tiny obverse blemish in the upper left field that is fully toned over. Otherwise the devices and fields are pristine. Housed In newer NGC holder with edge view insert.
Seated 50C 1861 1861
EF45
PCGS
44766422

Choice HOLD
$365
New October 12! Well Preserved, Lightly Crusted, Steely Fields, CAC Approved. A coin gray patina covers both sides of this light encrusted 1861 half. This one has been lurking in the "get to it" box and today is the day for posting. Beautifully preserved with steely fields that shift to sky blue under the desk lamp. The residual reflective luster is notable and pleasing. Worthy of a near-gem quality rating as the new owner is certain to be pleased. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2023) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1861S 1861-S
AU Details CACG
379489538
WB-9
Market Acceptable $495 New October 22! Better Grade, Steely-Frosted Luster, Strictly Graded, San Jose Collection. This San Jose Collection 1861-S was a raw piece held for over a decade before being sent to GFRC followed by CACG submission. This WB-9 example would have most likely straight graded at the other TPGs but not CACG due to very strict standards. With a 10x, I can see faint hairlines in the right obverse field under the toning while the reverse surfaces are entirely pristine. Overall coloratin is a faint gold layered over frosted surfaces. A Market Acceptable quality rating is warranted here. Housed in new CAC Grading (2023) holder and graded consistent with CAC approval standards.
Seated 50C 1862S 1862-S
VF20 ICG
2907070601
WB-1
Choice HOLD
$200
Gray Toning, Steely Reflectance, Fairly Graded, San Jose Collection. A pleasing 1862-S WB-1 half with medium gray toning and accurately graded. Under bright light, the fields are quite reflective at grade. A typical strike and essentially unabraded surfaces round out the attributes. Housed in older ICG holder. Perfect for a Dansco or Whitman bookshelf album project.
Seated 50C 1862S 1862-S
VF20 PCGS
26677590
WB-5
Original $195 Even Light Gray, Typical Dished Obverse, Bold Reverse, San Jose Collection. 1862-S Seated halves with often be seen with a "dished" obverse appearance while the reverse exhibits boldly struck devices. This is the case for this WB-5 release from the San Jose Collection. Surfaces are a consistent light gray with rose hues appearing with angled lighting. There are a few tick in the obverse left field which are consistent with the certified grade. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder.
Seated 50C 1863S 1863-S
F12 ANACS OWH
2696540
WB-3
Original $175 Popular Civil War Date, Light Gray, Evenly Worn, San Jose Collection. 1863-S halves saw a mintage of 916,000 destined for the expanding west coast commerce. This survivor is evenly worn with light gray surfaces. Fields are surprisingly mark free for the lower circulated grade. Ideal for a Dansco or Whitman bookshelf album or whatever project that is under pursuit. Housed in old white ANACS holder.
Seated 50C 1866 1866
With Motto
AU55
PCGS
13276489

Choice $1100 Near-Gem Original, Grimjet Collection.. Residual luster remains evident under the thick skin of the lower-mintage Philadelphia example. Intense blue color clings to the protected areas, while deep tan and chestnut color fills the fields. Although not scarce, the Mint struck less than a million pieces in this year, moving this issue solidly outside of a "type coin" classification. CAC has certified 30 pieces in all grades, with 14 coins finer. The CAC guide value is $546. Ex. Dr. Glenn Peterson Collection. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1866S 1866-S
With Motto
VF35 PCGS
14839385
WB-6
Original $300 With Motto, Old Album Toning, Steely Fields, San Jose Collection. On this 1866-S WB-6 With Motto half, the peripheral obverse gold and encroaching aquamarine is typical of time in an old paper album. Further validation is seen with the lighter toned reverse. Steely fields and residual luster are evident on both sides. Strike is typical. Overall, a pretty example of a better S-Mint date with old album toning. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder.
Seated 50C 1868S 1868-S
MS64+
PCGS
31855944
WB-5
R4
Gem $9750 Exceptional Gem, Hammered Strike, Golden Satiny Luster, Superb Eye Appeal, Opsrey Collection. The Osprey Collection continues to locate the most noteworthy Liberty Seated and U.S. gold coinage for the GFRC price list. This amazing 1868-S Seated half dollar is an exceptional gem and will please the most advanced collector of the series. Struck with the WB-5 die pairing that includes an eroded obverse die with partial denticles. The die erosion results in satiny textured luster while inspecting under a light source. Strike is hammered with every remaining detail being boldly defined. Both sides are covered light yellow gold skin that screams originality. Fields are entirely unabraded with the intensity of the satiny luster accounting for the technical grade. The WB-5 die pairing is consisted an R4 rarity per Bugert. Surfaces exhibit heavy die clashing and die cracks. CAC population is a scant three pieces at the MS64 grade level with a single approved piece finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1870S 1870-S
MS62 PCGS
81163610
WB-1
Original $3500 New October 9! Rare Date at Grade, Near-Choice Original, Oregon Beaver Collection.. Brilliant, frosty luster with swirling cartwheels blankets both sides of this wildly toned San Francisco piece. A silver palette hosts patchy sea-blue patina, with liberal smears of chocolate color atop the surfaces. A couple stars are soft but the claw joints are sharply impressed. WB-1, with date to the left and the first two digits weak. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder. This piece is scarce at this grade level, and PCGS has graded only 13 examples finer. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1870S 1870-S
raw
WB-2
Original $250 Near-Choice, Rose-Gray Patina, Steely Fields, San Jose Collection. The San Jose Collection is releasing a close to choice 1870-S WB-2 Seated half that was purchased from GFRC way back in 2015. This return appearance has allowed a Sales Archive update. This piece is covered crusty rose-gray patina that also exposes olive shades under a bright light. Steely fields and overall surfaces are well preserved with few if any blemishes.
Seated 50C 1871S 1871-S
EF45 PCGS
15727756
WB-4
Choice $285 Stone Cold Original, Crusty Coin Gray, Choice Surfaces, San Jose Collection. The rollout of the San Jose Collection S-Mint Seated halves continues with this choice 1871-S WB-4 half. Always a popular and highly collectible date, this survivor exhibits steely fields and crusty coin grade patina. From a wear perspective, this piece is accurately graded with bold head and scroll details. Fields are smooth and practically unblemished. Worthy of a circulated Seated half dollar collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder.
Seated 50C 1871S 1871-S
EF45 PCGS
84040616
WB-6
Original $245 Light Gray Patina, Residual Luster. Light gray coloration is seen on this 1871-S WB-6 Seated half. Bright light inspection exposes residual luster with traces of mint frost in the protected areas. Fairly priced. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1872 1872
AU53
PCGS
27149407

Gem HOLD
$635
New November 8! Gem Original, ex. Saw Mill Run and Cumberland County Collections. Medium skin exhibits tan and gray patina, while crusty bits are scattered about the obverse. The stars reveal blue and rose color as the coin is tilted under a light. Residual luster is ample for the grade, and the overall eye appeal is wholesome. WB-6, with the date punched noticeably to the right. CAC notes 28 pieces in all grades, with a price guide value of $390. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2013-2014) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1872S 1872-S
VF20 PCGS
31835181

Choice HOLD
$235
Steely Light Gray, Even Wear, Choice Surfaces, San Jose Collection. GFRC images accurately illustrate the evenly worn devices and light steely gray patina on this choice 1872-S half. Surfaces are well preserved and unabraded. A hold out from a summer time San Jose Collection release that needs a new home. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) holder.
Seated 50C 1873 1873
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
20765783

Choice HOLD
$3450
With Arrows Type, Choice Original, Newtown Collection.. Antique skin reveals mixed plum and silver patina, and the underlying, granular luster is vibrant. Deeper color resides in the stars and legend, where olive and deep blue shades frame the design elements. Star points are sharp, while the left claw joints blend together. CAC has certified 53 pieces in all grades, with only two coins finer, both in MS66. The CAC price guide value is $3,900. This is a popular two-year type, with the arrows added in 1873 to signify the increased weight at a metric standard, 12.50 grams exactly. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder.
Seated 50C 1873 1873
With Arrows
MS61 NGC
1775213009
WB-106
Original $1050 With Arrows, Bold Steely Frosted Luster, Nice Cartwheels, Emerald Collection. The final debut Emerald Collection consignment is an appealing 1873 With Arrows half with steely frosted luster and ample eye appeal. Orange-gold and gray shades nicely accentuate the obverse while the reverse is toned with grayish-blue shades. Strike is complete with all stars having center point while the reverse eagle's claws are nicely impressed. Scattered field micro abrasions are consistent with the certified grade. Housed in NGC Gen 7 (1997-2000) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1873CC 1873-CC
With Arrows
AU58
NGC
3584438004
WB-8
R7
Choice HOLD
$10500
Large CC, Digits Below Date, R7 Rarity, Choice Original.. This 1873-CC Liberty Seated half dollar is a significant arrival for passionate collectors of the series or for those with Carson City coinage as a side tangent. A condition census specimen with only two CAC approved at grade with four finer (3@MS63 and 1@MS65). Further increasing the significance is the WB-8 attribution with Large CC mintmark and errant digits on and above the rim below the date. When noted half dollar researcher, Bill Bugert, was done counting the errant date punches, he reports at least eight occurrences which is astounding. Bugert has assigned an R7 rarity rating for the variety with few known. The reverse is transitional with 1871-CC, 1872-CC, and 1876-CC adding more historical context. Fully choice with granular frosted luster that is brilliant with vibrant cartwheels. Coloration is copper-gold with darker hues at the peripheries. Destined to become one of the highlights in a top rated collection of the series. Housed in newer NGC holder with edge view insert and CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1874 1874
With Arrows
MS64
NGC
3603430010

Choice $3650 With Arrows, Choice Original.. A near-gem Seated half dollar lot which is ideal for an advanced collection of the series or for type. Copper-rose patina overlays the obverse while bluish-gold appears on the reverse. This 1874 half is so close to fully struck with only the left facing eagle claw not being completely raised. Uniform frosted luster is activated with angled lighting. A stray ancient line between stars 11 and 12 is seen with 10x. CAC has approved seven at grade with eight finer. Housed in newer NGC holder with edge view insert and CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1874 1874
With Arrows
MS64
PCGS
10649385

Gem HOLD
$3500
New November 19! Gem Original, Newtown Collection.. A medium skin of russet and tan shade covers both sides of this With Arrows example, with the center of the eagle retaining its original silver color. Frosty luster is readily apparent, and the overall eye appeal is strong. A healthy strike cleanly separates nearly all of the claw joints, and the head is sharp. The CAC census notes 66 pieces in all grades, with nine coins at MS64 and eight pieces finer. The CAC guide value is $3,900 in MS64. This two-year With Arrows design is avidly pursued by type collectors, increasing the pricing pressure across all grades. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1875 1875
MS64
PCGS
25343389

Choice $1870 New November 5! Beautifully Toned, Steely Reflective Luster, Vibrant Cartwheels, CAC Aaaproval, Oregon Beaver Collection. Consignor Price Reduction - GFRC wraps up its latest Oregon Beaver presentation with a beautifully toned 1875 half that just screams originality. Peach-gold tones cover the obverse along with a thin peripheral blue arc while the reverse is golden with darker shades at the legend. Luster is a high point as steely reflectance is readily apparent under angled lighting. Vibrant cartwheels are equally pleasing. The CAC green bean is well deserve. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1875S 1875-S
MS66
PCGS
25600278
Unlisted
Gem $6500 New November 19! Gem Original, Oregon Beaver Collection.. Even coffee patina covers the obverse center of this high-grade San Francisco piece, with original silver color remaining in the protected areas. The reverse reveals intermixed steel, tan, and deep maroon color throughout. A few stars are softly impressed. Despite a mintage of 3.2 million examples, CAC notes 60 coins total, a remarkably low total. The CAC census includes ten pieces in MS66 and just two examples finer, both in MS67. The CAC price guide value is $6,000. With a price jump to $21,600 in MS67, this is the finest example one can hope to acquire in the mid-four figure range. Ex. Eric P. Newman (Heritage Auctions, November 16, 2013, lot 33741, there certified NGC MS66, realized $11,750), previously from the Colonel E. H. R. Green collection. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) holder with CAC approval. The "Colonel" Green-Newman pedigree is listed on the label.
Seated 50C 1875S 1875-S
VF35 PCGS
27799941
WB-19
Choice $2000 Micro S, Choice Original, Newtown Collection. This micro-S variety is a popular issue with cherry pickers and exhibits a distinct, small mintmark that was likely intended for use on a smaller denomination. The Bugert reference notes 29 examples in all grades, with most pieces clustered in the G-VG range. This near-EF example reveals deep gray shading with hints of blue and ebony patina, more so on the reverse. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.6 (2003-2004) holder.
Seated 50C 1876 1876
PR63 PCGS
84766511

Choice $1400 Watery Mirrors, Brilliant Reflectance, Wire Rims, Purple-Rose Toning. Mintage for the 1876 proof issue was limited to 700 pieces with most survivors located between the MS62 through MS64 grades. The key when purchasing proof Seated coinage is striking (no pun intended) the right balance between eye appeal and preservation. This lovely example features sharp reflectance with minimum field hairlines for the certified grade. Mirrors have a watery texture when swirling this piece under a bright light. Toning is a nature purple-rose and most likely results from being stored in a felt lined cabinet. A careful 10x review will reveal a few wispy hairlines but nothing obvious or distracting. A solidly graded example that will please the new owner. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1876 1876
Lg/Sm Date
EF45 PCGS
18446129
WB-106
Gem $3250 Rare Large/Small Date, Gem Original, Newtown Collection. This important variety features a larger date style that was punched over a smaller date, with remnants of the first date remaining within the 1, 8, and 6 digits. This example reveals russet color in the protected areas, around the stars, legend, and within the figure of Liberty. Light dirt is evident in the shields and further outlines the devices. The strike is typical, with most claw joints blending together. This is a popular date, full of varieties, and this piece represents perhaps the most significant obverse die for the year. Overall eye appeal is excellent and the GFRC Gem rating is no accident. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with "Lg/Sm Date FS-301 (FS-007.4)" attribution on label. Ex. Cumberland Collection.
Seated 50C 1876S 1876-S
MS65
PCGS
45543695
WB-15
R4
Gem HOLD
$4300
Creamy Frosted Luster, Swirling Cartwheels, Repunched Mintmark, Gem Eye Appeal. This Mint State Seated half is a scarcer 1876-S die variety along with being a gorgeous gem. I'm trying to be most selective when building up high end Seated inventory; this one made the grade. Luster exhibits creamy light gold textures with angled lighting. Reverse cartwheel is particularly exciting. Strike is nearly complete with just touch of softness at the left scroll end but way better than dime and quarter struck counterparts of that year. A repunched mintmark is readily seen with a 10x. Overall, a premium gem with all the right parameters for an advanced cabinet. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2023) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1877 1877
MS66+
PCGS
82248342

Gem $8500 New November 19! Gem Original, Oregon Beaver Collection.. Booming, frosty luster flows from the glass-smooth surfaces of this GFRC-rated Gem example. Centers are untoned and lead toward russet patina that intensifies at the rims. This is the preferred “look” of many collectors, as the brilliant silver color in the central devices contrasts with evolving shades in the fields. The toning scheme on both sides is virtually identical, a characteristic associated with originally preserved pieces. Star centers are well defined, while most of the claws exhibit separation if faintly so. The CAC census includes 75 pieces total, with only three coins finer, all in MS67. PCGS counts but four pieces at the MS67 level, reinforcing the rarity of this issue in the highest grades. The CAC price guide value is $7,500, while PCGS quotes $8,000. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1877 1877
MS65+
PCGS
25559686

Gem $4000 Gem Original, Newtown Collection.. Dancing cartwheels boom from the surfaces of this colorful half, which exhibits a wash of russet and tan color highlighted by electric blue patina at the rims. Ample, frosty luster easily penetrates the medium skin, and the images do not completely convey the compelling in-hand eye appeal. Obverse star centers are sharp, while some feathers on the eagle's left leg blend together. CAC notes 71 pieces in all grades, with 17 coins finer. The CAC price guide is $3,250 in MS65 and $7,500 in MS66. Housed in a PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder.
Seated 50C 1877/6 1877/6
AU50 PCGS
24313751
FS-301
Choice $4750 1877/6 Overdate, Choice Original, Palos Verdes Collection. A Guide Book listed coin, the 1877/6 half is a well-known, popular variety. The steely fields of this example host thick patina, with luster more apparent in the untoned areas. The obverse exhibits deep tan and blue shades, while the reverse is primarily blue and silver. Protected areas are lighter, around the stars and within the eagle feathers. The strike is excellent with all design elements well-delineated. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.5 (2012-2013) holder. Previously from the Cumberland County Collection and back in GFRC inventory.
Seated 50C 1877S 1877-S
MS62
CACG
685215384

Gem HOLD
$975
New December 1! Steely Reflective Luster, Absolute Gem at Grade, Very Conservative CACG Grading. Yes, this 1877-S Seated half is an absolutely gem at the CACG certified grade. Steely fields radiate glowing reflective luster when viewed under a bright light. The darker in-hand toning melts away and reveals center rose and peripheral blues on the obverse while the reverse transitions to center blue-gray with peripheral aquamarine-gold. A 10x located a few ancient micro ticks on the lower gown that are totally inconsequential given the magnificent originality and eye appeal. This piece is more than conservatively graded and priced accordingly given that the GFRC purchase price was above the CDN CAC guide. Housed in new CAC Grading (2023) holder and graded consistent with CAC approval standards.
Seated 50C 1877S 1877-S
MS65
PCGS
36495212
WB-104
Gem $3250 Gem Original, Thick Frosty Luster, Newtown Collection. A gorgeous gem-graded half with swirling shades of blue and rose, this piece will captivate even the most grizzled coin veteran. Frosty luster booms from both sides, and the eye appeal is exceptional. The strike is full, with sharp stars and most eagle feathers distinct. This is the WB-104 variety, type 2 reverse with closed bud beneath the branch leaves. The next owner will derive substantial enjoyment from this premium quality example. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1877S 1877-S
EF45 PCGS
30794911
WB-12
Choice $245 Bold Strike, Natural Coin Gray Patina, Choice Surfaces, San Jose Collection. This thoroughly pleasing 1877-S WB-12 Seated half is an ideal circulated example at the certified grade. Strike is deeply impressed with nicely defined star center points and bold head details. The reverse strike is equally impressive. Surfaces are well preserved with natural golden-gray patina. Another release from the extensive San Jose Collection's S-Mint mini hoard. Sure the satisfy the new owner as fairly priced. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) holder.
Seated 50C 1877S 1877-S
EF45 PCGS
29722931
WB-8
Original $225 Steely Fields, Natural Coin Gray, Near-Choice Original, San Jose Collection. Here comes yet another Liberty Seated San Francisco half dollar offering from the San Jose Collection. An accurately graded example with steely fields and light coin gray patina. Deep aquamarine at the peripheries adds a touch of character to this WB-8 example. Strike is complete while the surfaces are have a few scattered ticks of no consequence. This piece is ready for a new home in a circulated date and mintmark set. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) holder.
Seated 50C 1878 1878
MS65 PCGS
38372610

Gem $4300 Gem Original, Oregon Beaver Collection. Electric blue, russet, and sea-green patina fill the obverse of this late-date Philadelphia piece, while the reverse center is brilliant and leads toward deep rim toning. Colors are transparent under a glass, and the skin is less thick than conveyed by the images. Frosted, granular luster imparts swirling cartwheels, and the GFRC Gem rating is consistent with the flash and overall eye appeal. Star centers are fully defined, while a few of the claw joints blend together. The PCGS price guide value is $5,000 in MS65, $12,500 in MS66. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1879 1879
MS65
PCGS
29975015

Gem $3950 Gem Original, Newtown Collection.. The low-mintage, 1879-1890 runs are well known to Liberty Seated half and quarter dollar enthusiasts, and this 12-coin group might easily stand on its own as a "set within a set." The present example, from the inaugural year of this run, presents a thick skin of smoky grey patina with sea-green highlights in the protected areas. Steely, frosted luster creates swirling cartwheels, and the eye appeal is compelling. Stars are sharply impressed, while a few of the feathers on the eagle's left leg are soft. The CAC census notes 79 examples in all grades, with 30 coins finer. The CAC price guide is $4,120. Housed in PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1880 1880
MS64
PCGS
29461857

Choice HOLD
$2400
Near-Gem Original, Saw Mill Run Collection.. Rose, gray, and blue shades cover both sides of this late-date Philadelphia half, more evenly on the obverse. This piece is the very definition of "skin," with patina that seemingly might be peeled away from the underlying silver surface. The Mint stuck less than ten thousand pieces in this year, though to be sure many were saved at the time of issue. Still, CAC has certified only 37 pieces in all grades, with 18 coins finer. The CAC price guide value is $3,300. Ex. Newtown Collection. Housed in a PCGS Gen 5.0 (2015) Dupont hologram holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1884 1884
MS65
PCGS
06612794

Gem $4850 Low Mintage Gem, Partially Mirrored Fields,, Rose-Blue Reflectance, Newtown Collection. The 1879 through 1889 timeframe saw a dramatic reduction in demand for circulating quarters and halves. During 1884, only 4,400 circulation strikes were issued probably for collectors on the northern Atlantic seaboard. Most survivors were saved after issue leading to many being found at the choice to gem Mint State grades. This Newtown Collection duplicate warrants close attention for its partially mirrored fields and colorful rose-gold reflectance. Peripheral blues are noted on the obverse while the reverse exhibits an aquamarine ring at the rim. Strike is also complete. Housed in PCGS Gen 4.4 (2005-2011) holder with CAC approval
Seated 50C 1885 1885
MS66 PCGS
33425886

Gem $8500 New October 9! Late Date Low Mintage Issue, Gem Original, Oregon Beaver Collection.. Few Liberty Seated dollars were struck between 1879 and 1890 due to a lack of commercial demand. Though sporting a mintage of 5,200, Mint State survivors are available with the median grade being MS63. The newest Oregon Beaver bank box releases is an MS66 example and only one of five certified at grade with another five finer. Rich frosted luster erupts once placing this piece under my LED desk lamp. Swirling cartwheels are quite satisfying too. Toning is intermixed aquamarine, rose, and yellow-gold. Strike is complete with raised center star points and bold motifs. There is on tick on the upper left facing arm and a trace of micro-chatter in the right obverse field. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder.
Seated 50C 1885 1885
MS65
PCGS
41344564

Gem $5750 Gem Original, Newtown Collection.. This is a piece that has to be seen in-hand to fully appreciate the deeply original surfaces and swirling cartwheels. Medium to thick rose skin covers both sides and leads toward blue crescents at the rims. The frosty luster is fully Gem and further highlights the old-time color of this low-mintage example. Star centers are completely delineated, while a few of the claw joints meld as one. CAC has approved 28 pieces in all grades, with three coins finer. The CAC guide price is $6,000, a reasonable level for a near-finest known example. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.1 (2020-2022) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1886 1886
MS66 PCGS
81730531

Gem $8500 Superb Gem, Reflective Cartwheel Luster, Lightly Mirrored Fields, Pristine Surfaces, Osprey Collection. Consignor Price Reduction. A beautiful high end 1886 Seated half with sparkling reflective luster and semi-transparent coloration. Bright light performance and eye appeal is consistent with a proof strike. In-hand obverse gray-rose shifts to light rose with peripheral blues. Deeper reverse toning is accentuated with aquamarine-gold. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 holder. An exceptional offering from the Osprey Collection.
Seated 50C 1887 1887
MS66
PCGS
25798403

Gem $5500 New November 19! Gem Original, Newtown Collection.. Maroon and rose patina fill the fields of this late-date Philadelphia half, while blue and charcoal shades flood the rims and protected areas. Design elements all rise above the toning, and the contrast is pleasing. The flash is exceptional, consistent with the technical grade, and showcases the thick color. Indeed, this piece must be seen in-hand to be fully appreciated. Stars to the right are softly impressed, while claw joints exhibit minimal separation. CAC has approved 30 pieces in all grades, with six coins in MS66 and five examples finer, all in MS67. The CAC price guide value in MS66 is $6,000. Housed in PCGS Gen 6.0 (2015-2020) holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1887 1887
MS63
PCGS
81641497

Choice $2500 Near Gem Original, Ex. Seal Beach and Oregon Beaver.. Yet another near-gem offering with important Seal Beach and Oregon Beaver Collection pedigrees, this better-date Seated half exhibits a background of blue, green, and gold, with the lighter figures that contrast nicely with the mirrored fields. Strike is typical, with some flat stars and merged detail below the reverse shield, but the decisive factor remains the overall, positive eye appeal. Housed in a PCGS Gen 6.0 holder with CAC approval.
Seated 50C 1889 1889
AU58 NGC
1774743013

Choice $1600 Choice Original, New Jersey Collection.. Lustrous, untoned surfaces host faint hints of color at the rims, while white, frosted luster radiates from the protected areas. This piece was likely dipped in the past, with a few hairlines evident. Nicely struck, with significant detail in the claw joints. Production was low in this year, 12,000 pieces, as the Philadelphia Mint churned out millions of Morgan dollars. Business strikes are today scarcer than proofs, with NGC reporting 129 circulation strike coins, as compared to 204 proof examples. The NGC price guide is $1,100. Housed in an NGC Gen 14 (2003-2004) holder.
Seated 50C 1890 1890
MS66
PCGS
3242079

Gem $7950 Popular Later Date, Luscious Coloration and Luster, Superb Gem Original, Mountaineer Collection. Consignor Pricing Reduction. It was certainly a thrill to receive this superb gem 1890 Seated half dollar via the Mountaineer Collection. "Luscious" comes to mind when viewing this piece under a bright light as so well balanced. Strike, luster, and toning are ideally matched and equally pleasing. Immediately obvious is the rich frosted luster that is entirely uninterrupted with field anomalies. Cartwheels are as expected for an MS66 certified and CAC approved half. Finally, the rose and blues gently grace the completely strike motifs. This gem has the look that will please the most selective specialist. I don't often issue a JUST BUY IT NOW for a higher four figure coin but this piece deserves the nod. Housed in PCGS Gen 3.1 (1993-1998) old green holder with CAC approval.