The 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a fascinating piece of American history and coinage. Released during a time of great change in the United States, this coin reflects the excitement and challenges of its era. In this guide, we will explore the background of this coin, its characteristics, how many were made, and why it is so special to collectors today.
The Background of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
In 1849, the United States experienced a gold rush due to the discovery of gold in California. This led to a significant increase in gold production and the need for new coins. The Gold Dollar and the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle were introduced to make gold more accessible to everyday people. The Gold Dollar was smaller and designed for general use, while the Quarter Eagle was larger and worth $2.50.
The United States Mint’s Chief Engraver, James Barton Longacre, successfully created the Gold Dollar, but he faced challenges with the Liberty Head Double Eagle. This meant that only a few Quarter Eagles were made in 1849, with the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia producing three types of gold coins: the Gold Dollar, the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, and the Liberty Head Half Eagle.
Production at the Dahlonega Mint
The Dahlonega Mint was active during the gold rush and played a vital role in producing gold coins. Below is a table summarizing the gold coins made in 1849:
| Coin Type | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1849-D Gold Dollar | 21,588 |
| 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle | 10,945 |
| 1849-D Liberty Head Half Eagle | 39,036 |
The 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle had the lowest production number of these three coins, making it quite rare. While it is rarer in excellent condition compared to the Half Eagle, many Gold Dollars are still available in great condition, with about 100 to 120 known uncirculated examples.
Characteristics of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has distinct features that collectors look for. Here’s a table summarizing its specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1849 |
| Denomination | $2.50 (USD) |
| Mintmark | D (Dahlonega) |
| Mintage | 10,945 |
| Alloy | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 4.18 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| OBV Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| REV Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
There are two varieties of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, which are identified by the position of the date relative to the denticles (the small raised dots around the edge of the coin):
- Variety 12-N (Low Date): The “1” in the date touches the denticle.
- Variety 11-N (High Date): The date is centered below the bust.
Both varieties are sought after, but the low date version is considered more scarce.
Market Data and Notable Coins
The market for the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is active, with several notable coins sold at auctions over the years. Here’s a table showcasing some recent sales:
| Coin Description | Sale Price | Auction Date |
|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS62 #83837065 | $18,221.90 | January 5, 2017 (Heritage) |
| NGC MS62 #302714-010 | $24,150 | April 7, 2006 (Heritage) |
| PCGS MS61 #32601310 | $16,450 | August 2, 2017 (Heritage) |
Collecting these coins can be a great investment, and they often gain value over time. Their rarity and historical significance make them desirable among collectors.
Conclusion: The Value of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
In summary, the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history that tells the story of the gold rush and the economic changes in the United States. With its limited mintage, unique design, and collector interest, this coin holds great value. For those looking to invest in numismatics or simply appreciate American history, the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a remarkable choice. As a collectible, it connects us to the past and reminds us of a time when gold changed lives and shaped the nation’s economy.
FAQ’s
What is the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a gold coin produced by the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia during the gold rush era. It has a face value of $2.50 and is made of 90% gold and 10% copper. With a total mintage of just 10,945 coins, it is considered quite rare among collectors.
Why is the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle valuable?
The 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is valuable due to its limited production, historical significance during the gold rush, and the unique design by engraver Christian Gobrecht. Its rarity in excellent condition makes it highly sought after by coin collectors and investors.
How can I identify the different varieties of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
There are two main varieties of the 1849-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, identified by the position of the date:
Variety 12-N (Low Date): The “1” in the date touches the denticle.
Variety 11-N (High Date): The date is centered below the bust. Collectors look for these details when identifying and valuing the coins.