Designed by: Christian Gobrecht
Issue Dates: 1866-1873
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 38.1 mm
Weight: 26.73 grams (412.50 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Proof Mintage: 6,060
The Liberty Seated dollar design was modified in 1866 by the addition of the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on the ribbon or scroll above the eagle on the reverse. Otherwise, the design is essentially the same as that used from 1840 onward. The “With Motto” format continued in use through 1873. The glory days of the silver dollar denomination were yet to come, and mintages were low in comparison to what would happen with the Morgan silver dollar beginning in 1878. The only "common'' Liberty Seated dollars in this range are the 1871 and 1872, and even they are scarce in relation to later issues.
As Liberty Seated silver dollars did not circulate as actively as smaller denominations, pieces in well-worn grades such as Good and Very Good are much scarcer (though no more desirable or ex pensive) than coins in Fine to Very Fine grade, the latter being the conditions typically seen. Extremely Fine pieces are available, AU coins are scarce, and Uncirculated pieces are scarcer yet. Superb Un circulated coins are rarities. Proofs were made of all Philadelphia Mint issues and exist today in proportion to their original mintages.
