he 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a valuable piece of American numismatic history. Struck at the Dahlonega Mint, this $2.50 gold coin has captured the attention of collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
If you’re a coin enthusiast or investor, this guide will help you understand the importance of this coin, why it’s highly sought after, and what makes it unique.
Brief History of the Dahlonega Mint
In the early 1800s, gold was discovered in the Southern United States, leading to the establishment of mints like Dahlonega, Georgia. The Dahlonega Mint operated from 1838 until 1861, primarily producing gold coins like the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle.
The 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was produced during a time when the mint’s output had slowed. After issuing 36,209 coins in 1843, the mint gradually decreased its output, with mintages ranging between 10,000 and 20,000 coins for most of the 1840s. By 1850, only 12,148 of these coins were minted, making it a low-mintage rarity.
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The Unique Features of the 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
- Mintage and Availability:
- The 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle had a total mintage of 12,148 coins. Despite this relatively low number, many were heavily circulated, and finding one in mint condition is extremely rare.
- Collector’s Pursuit:
- In the mid-19th century, coin collecting wasn’t as popular as it is today. Few collectors actively pursued coins by their mint marks, which made coins like the 1850-D less collectible during their time of issue.
- Surviving Examples:
- Today, most 1850-D Quarter Eagles are found in circulated conditions like Extra Fine (XF) or About Uncirculated (AU). Coins that survived in Mint State (MS) are even more valuable and can command high prices at auctions.
Why the 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle Is So Rare
Several factors contribute to the rarity of this coin. First, the 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle circulated heavily, meaning very few remained in pristine condition. Second, the lack of early collectors meant that most of these coins were not saved or preserved. Lastly, due to its small size and the fact that $2.50 in gold had significant purchasing power at the time, many were spent and lost to wear.
Market Value and Auction Prices
The 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has seen impressive sales at auctions. Below are some noteworthy examples:
- PCGS MS62 #33155352: Sold for $18,800 at a Stack’s Bowers auction in 2016.
- PCGS MS62 #50043495: Sold for $23,500 at a Heritage Auction in 2014.
- PCGS MS61 CAC #14983218: This coin, part of the A.J. Vanderbilt Collection, sold for $28,800 in 2018.
These high prices reflect the demand for well-preserved examples, with MS63 being the highest grade recorded for this coin.
Specifications of the 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
Here’s a quick rundown of the 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle’s key features:
- Country: United States of America
- Year of Issue: 1850
- Denomination: $2.50
- Mintmark: D (Dahlonega)
- Mintage: 12,148
- Composition: .900 Gold, .100 Copper
- Weight: 4.18 grams
- Diameter: 18.00 mm
- Designer: Christian Gobrecht (both obverse and reverse)
What to Look For When Buying
When buying an 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, be sure to verify its authenticity through certification from professional grading services like PCGS or NGC. Also, check for any signs of cleaning or other alterations that might affect its value. Coins with natural toning and minimal wear are highly prized by collectors.
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Conclusion
The 1850-D Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is not just a coin but a piece of American history. Its rarity, coupled with its gold content and historical background, makes it a must-have for serious collectors. Whether you’re looking to invest or expand your collection, this coin offers a valuable opportunity to own a piece of the past.