Recovered from the wreck of the SS Republic, this 1859-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar carries a remarkable dual provenance: it is both a piece of Civil War-era American coinage and a genuine shipwreck survivor. The Republic sank in October 1865 during a hurricane off the Georgia coast, and its recovery in 2003 brought thousands of period coins back to light. This New Orleans-struck half dollar was aboard when the ship went down, making it a tangible relic of one of the most storied maritime disasters in American history.

The obverse presents the classic Seated Liberty design, showing a draped figure of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield inscribed LIBERTY and grasping a pole topped with a Phrygian cap. Thirteen stars encircle the field, and the date 1859 appears below. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with spread wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA above and HALF DOL. below. The New Orleans mint mark O appears below the eagle. Surfaces reflect the characteristic Shipwreck Effect designation, with soft, ocean-influenced texture consistent with the coin's time on the ocean floor.

NGC has encapsulated this coin with its Shipwreck Effect designation, recognizing the authentic environmental patina imparted by the wreck. The surfaces show the muted, softened character typical of SS Republic coins, with original design elements remaining clear and identifiable. The SS Republic collection draws strong collector interest for its historical narrative and verified authenticity. For those seeking a piece of American maritime history in a well-documented, NGC-recognized shipwreck coin, this 1859-O half dollar is a compelling example. We have three 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.