1874 Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Arrows. Proof-66+ (NGC).；A handsome piece with profound visual appeal and undeniable numismatic significance. The obverse is richly toned throughout in blended charcoal-copper and cobalt blue patina. The reverse, on the other hand, exhibits a partial halo of copper-blue peripheral toning around a lighter sandy-silver and pale apricot center. Both sides possess an exacting strike with razor sharp definition to even the most intricate design elements. A smooth and attractive specimen seemingly earmarked for inclusion in a high grade type set.<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.
