1874 Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Arrows. Proof-65 Cameo (NGC).

1874 Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Arrows. Proof-65 Cameo (NGC).，This is an exceptionally attractive example of the short-lived Arrows, Motto Liberty Seated half dollar design type of 1873 to 1874. Ringed in vivid peripheral toning of bright gold, cobalt blue and reddish-apricot, both sides exhibit lighter silver-apricot iridescence toward the centers. The strike is razor sharp throughout, the devices satiny in texture and contrasting nicely with mirrored fields. Carefully preserved to uphold the coveted Gem grade from NGC, to see this coin is to admire it for both its technical quality and visual appeal.<p>The weight of the half dollar was modified again in 1873 when the Act of February 12 mandated an increase from 12.44 grams to 12.50 grams. The Mint once again decided to add arrows to the obverse before and after the date for coins struck to the new weight standard. This second Arrows Liberty Seated half dollar type remained in production only in 1873 and 1874, after which the basic Motto type returned, albeit with the weight standard as mandated in 1873.<p>The Arrows type of 1873 to 1874 is more challenging to locate than those of 1854 to 1855, at least in circulation strike format. Proofs of the later type are far easier to obtain in an absolute sense, as the Mint of the 1870s continued a trend begun in the late 1850s of respectable yearly production of Proofs to meet growing contemporary demand. The Proof 1873 Arrows and 1874 are of similar overall and condition rarity in todays market, both relatively obtainable in lower grades yet commanding a significant premium due to enhanced type collector pressure. At and above the Proof-65 level both issues are rare in an absolute sense and very rare from a market availability standpoint. The present specimen is one of the finest certified and will please even the most discerning numismatist.，，