The Morgan Silver Dollar: A Numismatic Icon
Among the pantheon of American coins, the Morgan Silver Dollar holds a revered status. Named after its designer, George T. Morgan, these silver dollars were minted from 1878 to 1921. What makes them so desirable to collectors is not just their substantial silver content but also the rich history they represent—spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period of significant economic growth and technological advancement in the United States. The series has variations and key dates that are particularly prized, such as the 1893-S and the 1889-CC, known for their low mintage and rarity.
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle: A Work of Art
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, minted from 1907 to 1933, is often considered the most beautiful coin in American numismatics. Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the Double Eagle features Lady Liberty striding forward, bearing a torch and olive branch. This imagery represents the nation’s aspirations towards peace and enlightenment. Additionally, the majestic flying eagle on the reverse captures the spirit of freedom. These coins are not only collected for their stunning design but also for their historical significance, as they were the last gold coin to circulate in the U.S. before the Gold Reserve Act of 1934, which ended their production.
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar: Symbolizing American Ideals
Issued from 1916 to 1947, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar is another series that embodies the American ethos. Sculptor Adolph A. Weinman designed this coin, which shows Lady Liberty in full stride, wrapped in the American flag and carrying branches of laurel and oak, symbolizing civil and military glory. The reverse features a bold eagle perched on a rocky crag. Collectors seek out this series not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for the collection challenges it presents, with certain years and mint marks, like the 1916 and 1921 issues from the Denver Mint, being particularly hard to find in high grades.
The Mercury Dime: A Nod to Classical Antiquity
The Mercury Dime, struck from 1916 to 1945, has erroneously derived its name from the winged cap on its obverse, leading many to associate it with the Roman messenger god Mercury. In fact, the cap is intended to represent liberty, and the portrait is that of a young Lady Liberty. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the same artist who created the Walking Liberty Half, its reverse depicts a fasces and an olive branch, conveying America’s readiness to defend peace. Coin collectors often chase after the elusive 1916-D issue, which boasts the lowest mintage of the series and is considered to be a treasured rarity.
State Quarters: A Modern Collecting Phenomenon
The 50 State Quarters program, launched by the U.S. Mint in 1999, rejuvenated interest in coin collecting for a whole new generation. Over the ten-year span of the series, each U.S. state was commemorated with its own unique quarter design. The coins are treasured for their wide range of historical representations and symbols reflecting the diverse heritage of the states. Innovative and accessible, the State Quarters series has successfully attracted both casual and serious collectors, with certain special editions, like the elusive S-mint mark proof coins, being particularly sought after for their low mintages and higher quality strikes. Uncover additional details on the subject in this recommended external resource. bullionsharks.com, continue expanding your knowledge!
Find more information on the subject discussed in this article by visiting the related posts we’ve prepared:
Investigate this valuable research