The 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece is a rare and fascinating coin that collectors often seek out due to its unique history and limited production. With a mintage of only 510 coins, it has become a prized possession for numismatists and enthusiasts alike. This guide will dive into the details of this coin, including its rarity, appearance, market performance, and some noteworthy specimens that have sold for impressive prices.
History and Production of the 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece
The 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece was minted in Philadelphia, with a total of only 510 coins produced. However, due to low demand, it is believed that 160 of these coins were melted down, leaving just around 350 coins in circulation. These coins are highly prized for their rarity. The coin was designed by William Barber, who also designed the reverse (back) and obverse (front) of the coin. The most notable feature of the 1877 Twenty Cent Piece is the slight difference in the height of the numerals “77” in the date, which sets it apart from other coins of its kind.
Coin Design and Features
The 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece features a classic design. On the obverse, Lady Liberty sits, holding a shield and an olive branch. The reverse shows an eagle, which is a common symbol on U.S. coins from this period. The coin is made of .900 silver and .100 copper, making it durable and beautiful, with a weight of 5 grams and a diameter of 22 millimeters. Its edge is plain, meaning it doesn’t have any raised or engraved markings along the side.
Market Performance and Noteworthy Specimens
The 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece was originally struck with a brilliant finish, but over time, many of these coins have become toned, making the well-preserved examples even more valuable. Coins that have strong mirrors, few scratches, and eye-catching appeal often sell for higher prices than typical ones.
Most coins from the 1877 issue fall into the Proof 63 to 64 range when graded by PCGS and NGC, two leading coin grading services. However, fewer than 10 coins have been graded as Deep Cameo/Ultra Cameo, which indicates that they are in exceptional condition. Coins with unique features, such as attractive toning patterns or few flaws, can command very high premiums in the market.
Noteworthy Sales
Some of the top sales of the 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece include:
- A PCGS PR-66DCAM coin sold for $57,600 at a Heritage Auction in January 2018.
- A beautiful NGC PF-65UCAM coin was sold for $19,800 in August 2019 and again in February 2020 for $17,400, with stunning blue and gold toning.
- Another NGC PF-67*CAM coin fetched $37,375 in a Heritage Auction back in June 2008, showing off cobalt blue toning around the edges.
Coins like these are rare, and their sale prices show just how valuable a well-preserved 1877 Twenty Cent Piece can be.
Popularity and Collectability
Despite the scarcity of the 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece, the coin remains a popular choice among collectors. Its limited mintage, beautiful design, and rarity make it a desirable addition to any collection. The coin’s unique features, such as the high “77” in the date, add to its charm and make it stand out among other coins from the same era. However, as with any rare coin, proper storage and care are important to preserve its value over time.
Conclusion
The 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece is an iconic coin that holds great historical significance and collector value. With a limited mintage and distinct features, it remains one of the most sought-after coins in numismatic circles. Collectors looking to add this coin to their collection should be prepared to pay top dollar for high-quality specimens. As always, the market for rare coins can be unpredictable, but for those who are passionate about collecting, the 1877 Liberty Seated Twenty Cent Piece is a gem worth considering.
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