By Charles Morgan and Hubert Walker for CoinWeek Notes …..
The entirety of the 1864 Liberty Seated Dollar business strike production took place on four dates: January 13, April 30, May 17, and July 29. The May and July strikings account for the majority of mintage.
For ordinary Americans living through the Civil War, silver coins like the Liberty Seated Dollar represented a significant amount of money and did not commonly circulate. Instead, high denomination coins were used by banks to back their paper money and by businesses for domestic and overseas transactions.
Insight into Civil War Era Coinage Circulation
During the Civil War, the circulation of silver coins was limited due to the war’s impact on the economy. The scarcity of the 1864 Liberty Seated Dollar in Mint State reflects this lack of circulation, as most coins were exported for international trade during this tumultuous period.
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Production of 1864 Liberty Seated Dollars |
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| January 13, 1864 | 5,700 struck | April 30, 1864 | 2,000 struck |
| May 17, 1864 | 8,500 struck | July 29, 1864 | 14,500 struck |
| Uncertain Date | 470 struck (Proofs) | ||
| Total Mintage: 30,700 coins | |||
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Market Analysis and Noteworthy Specimens
Third-party population data as of June 2024 indicates a total Gem population of 17 coins at the Gem level. The rarity and condition of coins like the 1864 Liberty Seated Dollar make them valuable collector’s items.
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Unique Design of the 1864 Liberty Seated Dollar
The intricate design of the 1864 Liberty Seated Dollar showcases Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty pole and shield. The reverse features a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching symbols of peace (olive branch) and defense (arrows).
Coin Specifications
| Country: | United States of America |
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References
Julian, R.W. “The Silver Dollar, 1853-1873.” Numismatic Scrapbook Magazine. August 1964. 2124-2128. Data compiled and analyzed from the National Archives.
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