Designed by: Christian Gobrecht
Issue Dates: 1839-1853, 1856-1866
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 30.6 mm
Weight: 13.36 grams (206.17 grains, 1839 to 1853), 12.44 grams (191.97 grains, 1856 to 1865)
Edge: Reeded
Business Strike Mintage: 76,238,285
Proof Mintage: fewer than 5,500

1839–1866 Liberty Seated Half Dollar – No Motto Type | Early American Silver Classic

The Liberty Seated Half Dollar without Motto, issued from 1839 through early 1866, stands as a foundational type in 19th-century American numismatics. Struck in 90% silver, this historic design reflects the artistry of Christian Gobrecht, whose interpretation of Liberty dominated U.S. silver coinage for decades.

Design & Variations

The obverse features Miss Liberty seated on a rock, her right hand resting on a shield inscribed LIBERTY, while her left holds a pole topped by a liberty cap—a time-honored symbol of freedom. Thirteen stars arch above, with the date placed below. The reverse depicts a heraldic eagle clutching three arrows and an olive branch, surrounded by the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination HALF DOL. beneath.

From a numismatic standpoint, this type is rich with die varieties and design nuances, including:

• No Drapery at Elbow (seen on some 1839 issues)

• Arrows at Date (distinct subtypes struck in 1853–1855 to reflect weight changes)

• Varying date sizes and reverse lettering styles

These subtle shifts offer abundant collecting opportunities for variety specialists and type set builders alike.

Rarity & Market Availability

While the series includes a number of scarce and conditionally rare issues, there are many readily available common dates, making the type accessible in grades from Good to Extremely Fine. Coins grading About Uncirculated (AU)are often found on the market, offering strong eye appeal at approachable price points.

Mint State examples, however, are considerably scarcer, and superb Uncirculated pieces (MS65 and above) are true numismatic prizes—particularly those with original luster and well-preserved surfaces.

Collectors should note that striking quality varies by mint:

• New Orleans (O-mint) issues are often softly struck, especially on the obverse stars.

• Philadelphia pieces tend to show sharper details and more consistent strike depth.

Whether you're building a Liberty Seated type set, investing in classic U.S. silver, or simply appreciating the elegance of early American coinage, the No Motto Liberty Seated Half Dollar (1839–1866) offers historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and excellent long-term value.