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1857-O

Half Dimes · Seated Liberty Half Dimes · 1837–1873
Regular
Weight1.24 g
Diameter15.5 mm
MintNew Orleans
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 1,380,000
EdgeReeded
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition90% Silver, 10% Copper
DesignerChristian Gobrecht
Collector's Key IDCK-1100

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About this coinHistory

New Orleans produced 1,380,000 half dimes in 1857, a substantial branch mint output. The 1857-O is common in circulated grades and available in Uncirculated condition. Strike quality is generally good for a New Orleans issue, with central detail typically cleaner than on some earlier branch mint dates. The O mintmark on the reverse identifies the coin as New Orleans-struck.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $21 $24
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $26 $30
F-12 Fine (F) $29 $34
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $38 $44
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $66 $77
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $143 $165
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $245 $285
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $520 $555
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1857-O Seated Liberty Half Dime worth?
In Good condition it runs about $21–$24, rising to roughly $245–$285 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1857-O Seated Liberty Half Dimes were minted?
1,380,000 were struck.
What is a 1857-O Seated Liberty Half Dime made of?
90% Silver, 10% Copper, weighing 1.24 g.
What is the melt value of a 1857-O Seated Liberty Half Dime?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1857-O Seated Liberty Half Dime a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.