The Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin, also known as the quarter eagle, is an iconic piece of American coinage. Minted between 1840 and 1907, this coin was crucial to the American economy, especially during the transformative years of the California Gold Rush. Available in denominations of $20, $10, $5, and $2.50, the classic Liberty Head style remains particularly notable for its widespread appeal and historical significance among collectors.
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1840 to 1844, the Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin features a stately portrayal of Lady Liberty. She is depicted wearing a coronet inscribed with "LIBERTY," with her hair elegantly tied back with a ribbon of pearls. The reverse side of the coin is adorned with an early version of the U.S. Seal, featuring a bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and the preparedness of the nation’s armed forces. This design remained largely unchanged throughout its production run, making it the longest-running U.S. gold coin without significant alterations.
The Liberty Head quarter eagle, composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, weighs approximately 4.18 grams. Initially, gold coins included silver, but the Gold Rush led to the separation of silver from gold in American coinage, with the coin’s face value reflecting its intrinsic gold value.
Coin images sourced from: National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, like its larger counterparts, features Lady Liberty facing left, surrounded by stars. The continuous production of these coins from 1840 to 1907 underscores their significance in everyday American life and their adaptability to economic changes. The California Gold Rush was instrumental in their production, providing ample gold to mint these coins and embedding them deeply into American history.
Numismatist Quentin David Bowers noted that the years 1850 to 1853 were a golden era for the gold dollar in daily commerce, as gold became more accessible than silver. This period saw a significant export and melting of U.S. silver coins, which were worth more than their face value by 1853. The Civil War further impacted the availability of gold coins, as many were hoarded, enhancing their scarcity and numismatic value today.
In 1933, the U.S. government recalled all gold bullion, including these coins, leading to the melting of many pre-1933 gold coins to support the economy. This makes surviving Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coins particularly prized by collectors.
Several key dates and rarities exist within the Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin series, making them highly sought after:
Unlike other denominations, the Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin did not feature the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," likely due to space constraints on the coin's design.
Mint marks on Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coins indicate the mint where the coin was produced. These coins were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Charlotte (C), Dahlonega (D), New Orleans (O), and San Francisco (S). The inclusion of these mint marks adds another layer of interest and value for collectors, as coins from certain mints are rarer and more valuable.
The value of Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coins is influenced by several factors, including the year of minting, mint mark, design type, and overall condition. Coins in exceptionally graded condition and those with significant historical value can fetch high prices in the market. Depending on the year of issue and condition, a collector can expect the coin’s value to be at least $490 USD.
For those looking to determine the value of their Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coins accurately, professional grading by services like the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) is highly recommended. These services provide expert evaluations of a coin’s condition, ensuring both authenticity and quality. Before sending coins for grading, collectors should inspect them for wear on critical details such as the olive branch and arrows in the eagle’s talons.
The Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin is not merely a piece of currency but a significant artifact of America's rich history and artistic legacy. Its timeless design and historical importance make it a valuable addition to any collection. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the field, the Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin offers a rewarding and enriching experience. At Bullion Hunters, we provide expert advice and a broad selection of collectible coins, including the iconic Liberty Head Gold Coin series. Visit our website or contact us to explore our inventory and enhance your collection with these timeless treasures.