Lost to the Atlantic Ocean in 1865, the SS Republic carried a cargo of coins that lay undisturbed on the seafloor for nearly 140 years before recovery. This 1854-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar was among them, and it now carries NGC's Shipwreck Effect designation, connecting it directly to one of the most celebrated numismatic discoveries of the modern era. New Orleans struck this Arrows around Date variety only from 1853-1855, making it doubly significant to collectors of 19th-century American coinage.

The obverse presents the classic Christian Gobrecht design of Liberty seated on a rock, draped in flowing robes and holding a pole with a liberty cap. The shield at her side bears the word LIBERTY in clear relief. Thirteen stars arc around the periphery, and the date 1854 appears below with the characteristic arrows at each side denoting the weight reduction of that year. The reverse shows a bold heraldic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arcing above and HALF DOL. below, the O mintmark visible beneath the eagle.

NGC has certified this coin with its Shipwreck Effect designation, acknowledging the distinctive surface character imparted by prolonged ocean submersion. The fields show the matte, silky texture associated with SS Republic recoveries, and the devices retain pleasing definition throughout. For those drawn to the intersection of American maritime history and 19th-century silver coinage, this coin represents a rare opportunity to own a genuine artifact from a famous shipwreck. We have two examples available for this date, similar the one pictured here.

For questions about this coin or to confirm availability and pricing, call us at 800-928-6468.