The SilverTowne Vault Blog

100 Greatest U.S. Coins Series: 1876-CC Liberty Seated Twenty-Cent Piece

Published 04/21/2026

Although represented in the 100 Greatest United States Coins Series higher up on the list, this next coin is what author Jeff Garrett says is a “perpetual embarrassment” for the United States Mint. While considered a rarity that collectors seek out now, the silver coin was also considered a failure before it was even issued. We continue our journey through the Whitman Publishing series today breaking down this unique specimen.

#26 – 1876-CC Liberty Seated Twenty-Cent Piece

Created to limit long term short-changing happening in the West, the twenty-cent piece was a massive misstep by the Mint. Author Jeff Garrett claims the creation of the denomination, despite the previous intention mentioned, was for the silver miners in the West...read more