The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is an intriguing piece of American coinage history. This gold coin, worth $2.50, was minted in New Orleans during a time when gold was plentiful in the United States, especially from California. In this guide, we will cover the details of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, including its history, variations, market value, and tips for collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, learning about this coin can enhance your appreciation of its role in American history and its significance in the coin-collecting world.
History of the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was first minted in 1840 and continued until 1907. The 1852-O version was struck at the New Orleans Mint, which was one of four mints operating at that time. Below is a summary of the historical details related to this coin:
| Mint | Year | Mintage | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Mint | 1852 | 1,000,000+ | Produced significantly more than New Orleans |
| New Orleans Mint | 1852 | 148,000 | Considered rare compared to Philadelphia Mint’s output |
The coin features Liberty on the front, symbolizing freedom, and an eagle on the back, representing strength.
Types and Variations of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle comes in two main varieties, distinguished by the shape and position of the mintmark. Understanding these variations is important for collectors as they can affect the coin’s value and desirability.
Mintmark Variations
| Variety | Mintmark Style | Position | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Variety 1 | Thin “O” | Slightly left of center | Arrow fletching visible at the top and left of the inner loop |
| Variety 2 | Thick “O” | Centered over the “1” in the date | Border of the fletching barely visible on the right side of the inner loop |
Market Value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The market value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has fluctuated over the years. Despite the Philadelphia Mint producing far more coins, the 1852-O is considered 17.5 times rarer in higher grades. This rarity contributes to its market value. Below are details on recent trends in prices for this coin:
Price Trends
| Grade | Last Sold Price | Date of Sale | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS63 | $12,650 | September 25, 1998 | Highest price recorded for this grade |
| NGC MS63 | $10,200 | January 14, 2022 | Recent noteworthy sale in a reputable auction |
| PCGS MS62 | $5,160 | August 16, 2024 | Indicates more affordable pricing today |
As seen in the table, the prices have decreased significantly in the last two decades, making it more accessible for collectors.
Specifications of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
Here are some important specifications for the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1852 |
| Denomination | $2.50 (USD) |
| Mintmark | O (New Orleans) |
| Mintage | 148,000 |
| Alloy Composition | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 4.18 grams |
| Diameter | 18.00 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
Conclusion
The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Understanding its variations, market value, and specifications can help collectors appreciate its significance. While the coin may have seen fluctuations in value over the years, its rarity and historical context make it a valuable addition to any collection. For those interested in numismatics, the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a reminder of the rich history of American coinage.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle special?
The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is special because it was minted during a time of significant gold production in the United States. The New Orleans Mint produced only 148,000 of these coins, making them much rarer than those minted in Philadelphia. Collectors value its historical significance and unique variations.
How can I tell the difference between the two varieties of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
You can distinguish between the two varieties by looking at the mintmark on the coin. Variety 1 has a thin “O” mintmark positioned slightly left of center, while Variety 2 has a thick “O” mintmark that is centered over the “1” in the date. These differences can affect the coin’s value and desirability among collectors.
What is the current market value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The market value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle varies based on its condition. As of 2024, coins graded at PCGS MS62 have sold for around $5,160, while those in higher grades like NGC MS63 can reach values up to $10,200. Prices have declined over the years, making these coins more accessible to collectors today.