The 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is an important piece in American coin history. This article will look at its design, historical background, and market value to help collectors and investors appreciate its significance.
Historical Significance
The year 1846 was a notable period in U.S. history, marked by events like the Mexican-American War. The Liberty Head Quarter Eagles were minted in three locations: Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Charlotte, each adding a unique aspect to the coin’s story.
- Philadelphia Mint: Produced 21,498 Quarter Eagles. These coins are known for their detailed strike and relative abundance.
- New Orleans Mint (O Mintmark): Minted 62,000 coins during a time of military preparation. These coins often have weaker strikes, particularly in the hair detail and the eagle’s right leg.
- Charlotte Mint (C Mintmark): Struck 4,808 coins. Due to fewer coins and a fire that delayed production, these are highly sought after.
Design and Features
The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The coin features Liberty wearing a coronet with the word “LIBERTY” and an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch on the reverse. This design reflects the nation’s aspirations and artistic style of the mid-19th century.
Market Data and Valuation
Condition and Rarity
- Philadelphia Mint: The highest grade known is MS63, with only three coins achieving this grade.
- New Orleans Mint: Rare in high grades, with an MS65 coin valued at about $132,000 due to its excellent condition and historical importance.
- Charlotte Mint: Coins from this mint are extremely rare in mint state, with values reaching over $40,000 at auctions.
Investment Perspective
The 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a valuable investment due to its historical significance and rarity. Its value tends to appreciate over time, making it a worthy addition to any collection.
Detailed Specifications
| Mint | Mintage | Notable Auction Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 21,498 | Up to $18,800 |
| New Orleans | 62,000 | Up to $132,000 |
| Charlotte | 4,808 | Up to $54,625 |
Summary Table
| Mint | Key Features | Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | Well-struck with significant output | Common |
| New Orleans | Often weakly struck, high historical value | Rare |
| Charlotte | Extremely rare, affected by historical events | Scarce |
1. What is the 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a gold coin minted in 1846 featuring Liberty’s portrait and an eagle on the reverse. It is significant in American numismatic history.
2. Why are there different mint marks on these coins?
Different mint marks (Philadelphia, New Orleans, Charlotte) indicate where the coins were produced. Each mint had unique characteristics and historical contexts.
3. What makes the Charlotte Mint coins so valuable?
Charlotte Mint coins are valuable due to their rarity. Only 4,808 were minted, and production was delayed by a fire, making these coins highly sought after by collectors.
4. How can I determine the value of my 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The value depends on the coin’s condition and mint mark. High-grade coins, especially from the New Orleans Mint, can fetch significant amounts at auctions.
5. Why should I invest in the 1846 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
This coin is a valuable investment because of its historical importance and rarity. Its value tends to appreciate over time, making it a good choice for collectors and investors.
