The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin is one of the most fascinating and valuable coins in American numismatics. Minted during a period of economic change and political uncertainty in the United States, this coin features the Seated Liberty design, symbolizing freedom and strength. What makes the 1873-CC No Arrows variety so interesting is its rarity and historical significance. Minted at the Carson City Mint, the coin is part of a limited series, adding to its value and desirability among collectors today.
History of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Coin
The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin was minted during a crucial time in U.S. history. The coin was part of a larger series of silver half dollars produced during the 1870s, but it stands out because it was minted before the U.S. Mint introduced arrows next to the date. This “No Arrows” variety indicates the coin was struck before the Mint altered the weight of the half dollar. The Carson City Mint, located in Nevada, was known for producing fewer coins than other mints, making any coin with the “CC” mintmark especially valuable.
Design Features of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Coin
The design of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin reflects the strength and ideals of the United States during the late 19th century. Below is a table highlighting the key design features of the coin:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Features Seated Liberty, a female figure representing freedom and strength. She holds a shield and a laurel wreath. |
| Reverse Design | Depicts a bald eagle with wings spread, surrounded by a wreath of olive branches and arrows. |
| Mintmark | “CC” mintmark for the Carson City Mint, indicating its rarity and higher value. |
| Inscription on Obverse | “LIBERTY” above Liberty’s head, with the year “1873” below. |
| Inscription on Reverse | “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” along with the eagle design. |
| Design Creator | Christian Gobrecht, responsible for the Seated Liberty design used on multiple U.S. coin denominations. |
Why the 1873-CC No Arrows Coin is Special
There are several reasons the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin is highly regarded:
- Low Mintage: The Carson City Mint produced fewer coins compared to other U.S. mints, and this coin was one of the rare examples from that mint.
- Historical Significance: Minted during a time of economic instability (the Panic of 1873), the coin represents an important moment in U.S. history.
- No Arrows Design: The “No Arrows” design indicates that it was minted before the U.S. Mint altered the weight of the half dollar later in the year, making it even rarer.
- Rarity: Due to its low mintage and historical context, this coin is scarce today, and high-grade examples are highly sought after by collectors.
Value of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty Coin
The value of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin varies based on its condition and rarity. As one of the more valuable coins from the late 19th century, it can be worth thousands of dollars, especially in higher grades. Below is a table showcasing the potential value of this coin based on its condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Fine (F-12) | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $4,000 – $5,500 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $6,000 – $7,500 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60 or Higher) | $12,000 – $15,000+ |
Coins in mint state (MS-60 or higher) fetch the highest prices, especially if the coin is well-preserved and shows minimal signs of wear. The “CC” mintmark significantly increases its desirability, as Carson City coins are often viewed as more valuable by collectors.
Conclusion
The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin is an important piece of American numismatic history. Featuring the iconic Seated Liberty design and struck at the Carson City Mint, this coin offers a glimpse into the past, symbolizing both the strength of the U.S. and its economic challenges in the 1870s. With its rarity and historical context, the 1873-CC No Arrows coin remains a highly sought-after collectible, cherished by numismatists and historians alike. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to coin collecting, this coin offers both historical insight and a valuable addition to any collection.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin rare?
The 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin is rare due to its low mintage at the Carson City Mint and its “No Arrows” design, which was struck before the U.S. Mint altered the weight of half dollars in the same year.
How much is an 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin worth?
The value of the 1873-CC No Arrows Seated Liberty coin can range from $1,000 to over $15,000 depending on its condition, with higher grades fetching the highest prices.
What is the significance of the Carson City mintmark?
The Carson City mintmark (“CC”) is highly desirable among collectors because the Carson City Mint produced fewer coins, making coins from this mint rarer and more valuable.