USA ½ dollar Seated Liberty Half Dollar 1844
USA, New Orleans
Rarity
Common
Attributes of Coins
| Region | USA |
|---|---|
| Denomination | ½ dollar |
| Krause number | KM# 68 |
| Mintage | 2,005,000 |
| Metal | Silver 0.900 |
| diameter | 30.6 mm |
| weight | 13.36 g |
Obverse:
Liberty
Star
Creators:
Christian Gobrecht
LIBERTY
Reverse:
Coat of arms
Creators:
Christian Gobrecht
HALF DOL.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Introduction of Coins
The 1844-O half dollar is common in circulated grades through Very Fine and only slightly scarce in grades XF and AU. Mint State survivors are somewhat elusive but not truly rare. Though well struck overall, they are often seen from severely overpolished dies on which the shallower features of the design have been partly or fully obliterated. The element most often lost is the drapery beneath Liberty's elbow, but her her left foot is also a frequent casualty of aggressive die polishing. Some 10 obverse and 14 reverse dies are known, these used in various combinations to produce 22 observed die marriages. With so many dies used, it's not surprising that several varieties stand out for 1844-O. The most desirable of these is FS-301 (WB-103), which has a duplicate date placed way too high, actually penetrating Liberty's gown. The many repunched dates and mintmarks known for this year and the next several have been attributed to James B. Longacre, who became the U. S. Mint's new chief engraver upon the death of Christian Gobrecht this same year. A highly accomplished plate engraver, his skills at die sinking had to be learned on the job, and there were many errors committed during his tenure, which lasted until his death on New Year's Day, 1869. Four collars are known for 1844-O, these having reed counts from 146 through 149 reeds.Read More
