1868-S H10C Seated Liberty Half Dime
The 1868-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is a fascinating piece of numismatic history from the latter half of the 19th century. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this particular half dime holds a unique place for collectors due to its scarcity and historical context.
Mint and Mintage:
Minted at the historic San Francisco Mint, the 1868-S Half Dime had a total mintage of only 80,000. This low mintage contributes significantly to its rarity and desirability among collectors. Within the numismatics realm, the limited production run makes any surviving specimens especially important, reflecting the broader economic conditions of the post-Civil War era and specifically the California region during its economic transformation.
PCGS Information:
The 1868-S H10C has been assigned the PCGS identification number 4391. The grading scale and subsequent values can vary significantly based on the condition and certification of the individual coin, reflecting the broader market dynamics and collectors' appetites for high-quality examples.
Rarity and Value:
The rarity of this coin comes not just from its low mintage but also from its survivability, with few examples in higher grades. In recent years, auction records have shown robust demand for well-preserved specimens. Prices realized at auctions have varied widely, but high-grade examples can fetch prices reaching several thousand dollars. The value in the collector's market often aligns with the scarcity of quality specimens and the historical significance of the coin itself.
Historical Numismatic Perspective:
From a numismatic perspective, the 1868-S Liberty Seated Half Dime is emblematic of its era. The Liberty Seated design, introduced in 1837, was used across various denominations but faced alterations and challenges as America expanded westward and underwent industrial and social changes. The San Francisco Mint, operational since the height of the Gold Rush, played a crucial role in supplying coinage to the rapidly growing Pacific frontier. Coins from this mint, particularly those from the 1860s, have increased historical value due to their connection with this transformative period.
Market Insights:
According to recent sales data, collectors highly prize this coin, especially those that maintain excellent detail and luster. Specific auction records highlight the competitive nature of acquiring such numismatic gems, with rare pieces sometimes surpassing their expected valuations due to the fervor among collectors for completing series or enhancing collections with high-quality, scarce coins from renowned mints like San Francisco.
CoinFacts.com Insights:
Listed as an item of interest with limited availability, the 1868-S Half Dime garners attention not only for its rarity but also for the artistry and craftsmanship associated with the Liberty Seated series. The site notes the importance of examining strike quality and surface preservation as key determinants of a specific piece's market value and collectibility. In summary, the 1868-S Liberty Seated Half Dime represents a rich tapestry of American numismatic history. Its rarity, tied to both the economic conditions of 1868 and the limited number of surviving coins in desirable condition, contributes to its esteemed position among collectors. The combination of historical context, minting specifics, and auction performances provides an intriguing narrative for any numismatic enthusiast or investor.
