The SS Republic has become one of the most celebrated shipwreck recoveries in American numismatic history, and this 1860-O Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a genuine artifact from that storied wreck. Struck at the New Orleans Mint in 1860, just months before the Civil War reshaped the nation, the coin sank with the Republic in 1865 and rested on the Atlantic floor for nearly 140 years. NGC has certified it with its distinctive Shipwreck Effect designation, confirming its authenticity as a recovered coin from this famous loss.

The obverse presents the classic Seated Liberty design, with the robed figure of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole topped with a Liberty cap and resting against a striped shield inscribed "LIBERTY." Thirteen stars arc around the periphery above the date 1860. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with spread wings, clutching an olive branch and three arrows, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arching above and "HALF DOL." below, with the O mintmark visible beneath the eagle. The surfaces carry the characteristic texture associated with ocean recovery, as noted by NGC.

NGC certified this coin under its SS Republic Shipwreck Effect designation, cert number 8676507-245. The coin shows the muted, lightly frosted surfaces typical of long ocean immersion, with detail remaining clear across the major devices. Seated Liberty Half Dollars from the New Orleans Mint are collectible in their own right; this example carries the added dimension of a documented shipwreck provenance. For those drawn to the intersection of American history and numismatics, a certified SS Republic coin offers a rare connection to both the antebellum era and a genuine maritime disaster. 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.