SuperDave's post about the 1862-S half mentioned that different reverse dies were put into service for the 1862 coins, compared with earlier issues. I have an 1857-S half and I compared its reverse to that of my 1862-S. The differences seem minor, with the 1862 having blockier letters that appear to crowd together more closely. As is common for the hand-punched mintmarks from this era, the 1857 mintmark size and position differ from the 1862 coin.
I like the 1857-S since it is quite a scarce date even in worn condition. I picked up this original example from JJ Teaparty for about $95 and was very pleased to add it to my collection. With three letters of LIBERTY partially visible I would grade it G-06, maybe VG-8 on a good day.
For comparison, the reverse photo of my 1862-S coin appears after the 1857-S reverse.
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