Arizona’s Silver Rush and the Comstock Lode
In 1859, silver mining in Arizona was fully operational, with silver shipments traveling both westward and eastward to meet the growing demand. This year also marked the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Nevada, a significant event that spurred a rush of miners to the Utah Territory. The expansion of mining operations in Arizona was pivotal, as it laid the foundation for future silver production in the region.
The Philadelphia Mint Resumes Production
Though the Philadelphia Mint did not strike any silver dollars in 1858, it resumed production in 1859, minting a total of 256,500 Liberty Seated Dollars. Most of these coins were earmarked for export, being paid out to merchants in India and China. Some of the 1859 silver dollars were likely melted down in 1861, as the U.S. Mint repurposed them into subsidiary silver coins due to economic shifts.
Production of 1859 Liberty Seated Dollars
The production of 1859 Liberty Seated Dollars began on April 18 and concluded on December 10. During this time, the Mint produced a total of 256,500 business strike coins, which were distributed in 13 separate deliveries. The majority of these deliveries occurred in October. In addition to the business strikes, the Mint also produced 800 Proof strikes, which were much rarer.
Mintage Breakdown:
- April 18: 33,000
- April 19: 22,000
- April 28: 2,500
- June 27: 16,000
- June 30: 8,000
- October 6: 22,000
- October 13: 18,000
- October 18: 17,000
- October 24: 24,000
- October 25: 16,000
- November 21: 29,000
- November 23: 22,000
- December 10: 2,000
The Design and Specifications of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar
The 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar is known for its beautiful design, crafted by Christian Gobrecht. The obverse depicts Liberty seated on a rock, holding a Liberty pole, with 13 stars surrounding her. The reverse features a majestic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOL.” inscribed around the coin.
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Specifications:
- Country: United States of America
- Year of Issue: 1859
- Denomination: One Dollar (USD)
- Mintmark: None (Philadelphia)
- Mintage: 256,500
- Alloy: .900 Silver, .100 Copper
- Weight: 26.73 g
- Diameter: 38.10 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
The 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar remains a coveted coin among collectors. Examples in About Uncirculated condition can fetch prices starting at $2,000 or more. Notable specimens, like those graded MS66+, are highly prized, with prices varying depending on their condition and toning.
Popular Specimens:
- PCGS MS66+: Known for its beautiful green, brown, and blue toning.
- PCGS MS64 CAC: Frequently found in auctions, with some specimens selling for over $15,000.
The year 1859 was pivotal not only for silver mining in Arizona but also for the history of U.S. coinage. The Philadelphia Mint’s production of Liberty Seated Dollars marked a significant return to silver coinage, which would go on to shape the U.S. economy in the years to come. The legacy of the 1859 Liberty Seated Dollar lives on in the numismatic world, where it remains a valuable collector’s item.
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