Liberty Head $2.5 (1840 - 1907)

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Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Quarter Eagle (1840–1907): A Timeless Classic in U.S. Coinage

The Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Quarter Eagle, also known as the Coronet or Braided Hair Quarter Eagle, is a cornerstone of American numismatics. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this series holds the distinction of having the longest uninterrupted design run in U.S. coinage history, spanning from 1840 to 1907. With its elegant design and historic significance, the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle remains highly desirable among collectors.

Key Specifications

  • Designer: Christian Gobrecht
  • Issue Dates: 1840–1907
  • Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
  • Diameter: 18 mm
  • Weight: 4.18 grams (64.50 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded

Design Features

Obverse: Iconic Representation of Liberty

  • Features Miss Liberty with her hair in a bun secured by beads.
  • She wears a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, facing left.
  • Encircled by 13 stars representing the original colonies, with the date below.

Reverse: Heraldic Strength

  • Depicts an eagle with a shield on its breast, perched on an olive branch and clutching three arrows.
  • Encircled by the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 2½ D.

Production and Mint Locations

The Philadelphia Mint produced Liberty Head Quarter Eagles every year of the series. Additional mintages occurred at Charlotte (C), Dahlonega (D), San Francisco (S), and New Orleans (O), with branch mint issues adding rarity and collectibility.

  • Early Issues: Coins from the 1840s, especially the 1841 "Little Princess", are scarce and highly sought after.
  • Late Issues: Coins struck between 1902 and 1907 are the most common, making them ideal for type collectors.
  • Proof Coins: Minted continuously with estimated total production of just 4,232, proofs remain extremely rare.

Rarity and Collectibility

Circulated Coins:

  • Readily available in grades from Very Fine to About Uncirculated (AU).
  • Early issues, especially from Charlotte and Dahlonega, are significantly scarcer.

Uncirculated Coins:

  • Commonly encountered for later dates, particularly from 1902–1907.
  • Superb Uncirculated coins are rare, commanding premium prices.

Proof Coins:

  • All proof Liberty Head Quarter Eagles are rare, with mintages surpassing 100 coins only in later years.

Why Collect Liberty Head $2.5 Quarter Eagles?

  1. Rich History: This series spans nearly seven decades, capturing key periods in U.S. history.
  2. Iconic Design: The Liberty Head motif is one of the most enduring and recognizable in American coinage.
  3. Wide Availability: Suitable for collectors of all budgets, with options ranging from circulated examples to rare proofs.
  4. Branch Mint Rarities: Coins from Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans offer exciting opportunities for advanced collectors.

Add a Piece of History to Your Collection

The Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Quarter Eagle is more than just a coin; it’s a testament to America’s numismatic and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a type set example or a rare branch mint issue, ParadimeCoins.com offers a curated selection of Liberty Head Quarter Eagles to suit every collector's needs. Start building your legacy today!