The 1853 Seated Liberty half dime is a classic coin that holds historical significance as the first half dime to bear the image of Millard Fillmore, the 13th President of the United States. As with any rare or valuable coin, it's essential to know how to authenticate an 1853 Millard Fillmore half dime to ensure its genuineness and protect yourself from potential counterfeits. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Examine the Coin's Details and Characteristics:
• Obverse: The obverse of an authentic 1853 Millard Fillmore half dime features a left-facing portrait of the president with the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DIME" encircling the portrait. Pay attention to the precise details and sharpness of the lettering, facial features, and hair.
• Reverse: The reverse of the coin showcases a seated Liberty figure holding a pole topped by a liberty cap. The year "1853" is prominently displayed below Liberty. Scrutinize the overall design, proportions, and details of the eagle, shield, and wreath.
2. Check the Lettering and Numerals:
• Authentic 1853 half dimes have distinctively serifed lettering and numerals. The letters and digits should be well-formed, sharp, and consistent in size and style.
3. Assess the Luster and Strike:
• Original 1853 half dimes exhibit a soft and satiny luster. Counterfeits often lack this natural luster and may have an artificial shine or a "milky" appearance. Also, scrutinize the quality of the strike. Genuine coins tend to have a crisp and full strike with consistent details throughout the design.
4. Examine the Coin's Weight and Dimensions:
• Authentic half dimes should weigh approximately 1.80 grams and measure around 17.9 millimeters in diameter. Slight variations are normal due to wear and circulation, but significant deviations could be a red flag.
5. Inspect for Signs of Damage or Alteration:
• Counterfeits may exhibit signs of artificial aging or damage. Look for irregularities in color, surface texture, or edge details that deviate from the natural wear patterns of a genuine coin. Any evidence of soldering or tooling should also raise concerns.
6. Seek Professional Authentication:
• If you suspect that a coin is counterfeit or are uncertain about its authenticity, it's highly recommended to seek professional authentication from a respected numismatic organization or a reputable coin dealer.
Remember, authenticating coins requires expertise, experience, and access to specialized equipment. If you're ever in doubt about the genuineness of an 1853 Millard Fillmore half dime or any other coin, it's best to consult a professional numismatist or consult trusted sources for further guidance and verification.