1861 Liberty Seated Half Dollar Average Circulated Condition – Civil War Date

The 1861 Liberty Seated Half Dollar is an iconic piece of American history struck during the opening year of the United States Civil War. This historic 90% silver half dollar circulated during one of the most turbulent and defining periods in the nation’s past, making it a highly collectible coin for both numismatists and history enthusiasts alike. Offered here in Average Circulated Condition, each coin showcases the unmistakable Liberty Seated design along with the honest wear expected from mid-19th century silver coinage.

Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the obverse features Liberty seated holding a shield and liberty pole, while the reverse displays a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch. These classic design elements remain popular among collectors of Civil War era coins and vintage U.S. silver.

A Genuine Civil War Era Silver Half Dollar

The year 1861 marked the beginning of the Civil War, adding tremendous historical significance to this Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Coins dated from this era are especially sought after due to their direct connection to one of the most important chapters in American history.

With an original mintage of just 2,887,400 pieces, the 1861 Liberty Seated Half Dollar remains a desirable collectible more than 160 years after it was struck. Surviving circulated examples continue to be treasured for both their silver content and historic importance.

Classic Liberty Seated Coinage

The Liberty Seated series was produced across multiple denominations throughout the 19th century and remains one of the most respected classic U.S. coin designs. Half dollars from this era saw extensive circulation in commerce, making surviving examples increasingly difficult to locate today.

Average circulated examples provide collectors with an affordable opportunity to own authentic pre-Civil War and Civil War era silver coinage while appreciating the vintage character developed through generations of use.

1861 Liberty Seated Half Dollar Specifications

The 1861 Liberty Seated Half Dollar is a meaningful addition to collections focused on Civil War coins, classic U.S. silver coinage, or historically significant American numismatics. Its combination of silver content, vintage design, and Civil War history makes it a standout collectible from 19th century America.