1/2 Dollar (sold for $380.0)

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1853-O. Arrows and rays. NGC graded Shipwreck Effected (C) F. In a special box with certificate. Due to the reduction in the weight of the minor silver coins by the Mint Act of 1853, it became necessary to mark the new coins in some way to allow banks, etc., to distinguish them from the pre-Act silver of the old standard, some of which had been struck in 1853. In a letter to Mint engraver James Longacre on February 22, 1853, Mint Director Eckert discussed possible design changes to achieve this: ". One suggestion which has been made impresses me favorably; it is to make a change in the reverse of the half and quarter dollar assimilating them to the dime & half dime; that is introducing a wreath, with the name of the coin enclosed. Such alterations, in connection with arrows at the dates, as you have formerly proposed, might suffice ." Longacre replied on February 28: ". The time allowed by the law, is too short to warrant any elaborate revision or alteration of the present devices. I would therefore respectfully suggest the following changes, to be made on the obverse and reverse, respectively, of the silver coins now in use. On the obverse of the coins I propose to mark the place of the date, somewhat in the manner represented on the next page [that is, with facing arrow heads]. On the reverse, I propose for the half and quarter dollar to cover the space between the Eagle and the inscription with rays radiating from the centre of the piece -- or what in heraldic language is termed a 'glory' ." From this we can credit Longacre with the design changes on both sides of the coins. Estimated Value $500 - 600. Ex SS Republic. Categories: Seated Liberty Half Dollars

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