Few coins in United States history capture the artistry, history, and enduring appeal of American coinage like the US $10 Liberty Head Half Eagle Gold Coins. Minted between 1838 and 1907, this classic gold coin serves as more than just currency. It represents a piece of American history, showcases exceptional artistry, and remains a favorite among collectors and investors alike. At Premier Coin Galleries, we highlight the significance of the Liberty Head Half Eagle and guide collectors in understanding its value and legacy.
Specifications of the US Ten Dollar Gold Coins
- Diameter: 1-1/8” (27 mm)
- Weight: 258 grains (16.718 grams)
- Composition:
- 90% gold, 10% silver/copper (1838–1873)
- 90% gold, 10% copper (1873–1907)
- Designer/Engraver: Christian Gobrecht (1838–44), James Longacre (1844–68), William Barber (1869–79), Charles E. Barber (after 1879)
- Mint Marks: Philadelphia (none), Denver (D), San Francisco (S), New Orleans (O), located under the eagle on the reverse
Obverse Design
The obverse of the coin features Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY.” Below the portrait is the date, and 13 stars encircle the portrait along a beaded border—a hallmark of classic U.S. coinage.
Reverse Design
The reverse features a spread eagle clutching three arrows in the left claw and an olive branch in the right. The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and TEN D. encircle the eagle along a beaded border. Beginning in 1866, the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears on a scroll above the eagle.
The History Behind the Liberty Head Half Eagle Coins
The Liberty Head Half Eagle owes its creation to a fascinating period of U.S. monetary history.
In the early 1800s, rising gold prices—caused by international turmoil including the Napoleonic Wars—led President Thomas Jefferson to halt production of $10 gold coins on December 31, 1804. Over three decades passed before production resumed.
In 1838, after two Acts of Congress altered the weight and fineness of U.S. gold coinage, the Treasury instructed Mint Director Robert Maskell Patterson to produce $10 gold coins immediately. Acting Mint Engraver Christian Gobrecht designed the now-famous Neo-classical Coronet Liberty Head, drawing inspiration from Benjamin West’s painting Omnia Vincit Amor.
The reverse design improved upon the earlier John Reich eagle, a staple of American coinage since 1807.
“In God We Trust”: A Civil War Influence
During the Civil War, the nation faced spiritual and philosophical reflection. Many Americans believed that God should be referenced on U.S. coinage. Treasury Secretary Salmon P. Chase received petitions for a religious inscription. Suggestions evolved, and by 1866, the familiar phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” was officially added to U.S. coinage, appearing on a scroll above the eagle on the Liberty Head Half Eagle.
Rarity and Collectibility
The Liberty Head Half Eagle’s mintages varied, especially in the early years before the motto appeared. Economic hardships and low circulation demand contributed to limited surviving examples, and many were eventually melted during the gold recalls of the 1930s. Today, mint-state specimens are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Transition to the Indian Head Half Eagle
After nearly 70 years in production, the Coronet Liberty Head design was retired in 1907. It was replaced by the Augustus Saint-Gaudens $10 Indian Head, another legendary design often cited as one of the most beautiful U.S. coins. Despite this, the Gobrecht Coronet Liberty Head remains an iconic symbol of American artistry and craftsmanship in gold.
Why Collectors Love the Liberty Head Half Eagle
- Historical Significance: Each coin tells a story of 19th-century America, from the economic impacts of war to religious sentiment post-Civil War.
- Artistic Value: Gobrecht’s Coronet Liberty design remains a masterpiece of Neo-classical art.
- Investment Potential: With a high gold content and rarity in mint state, these coins are valuable additions to any collection or investment portfolio.
- Variety of Mints and Years: The multiple mint marks and production spans offer collectors numerous options for building a complete collection.
Tips for Collecting Liberty Head Half Eagles
- Check the Mint Mark: Coins were minted in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and New Orleans. Some mint marks are rarer and more valuable.
- Evaluate the Condition: Mint-state coins are especially rare and command premium prices.
- Consider Historical Context: Coins from key historical periods, such as early “no motto” years, can hold added significance.
- Buy from Reputable Dealers: Trustworthy dealers like Premier Coin Galleries ensure authenticity and provide expert guidance for collectors.
FAQs About the Liberty Head Half Eagle
- What years were the Liberty Head Half Eagle minted?
- From 1838 to 1907, with multiple design updates by different engravers over the decades.
- What is the gold content of the Liberty Head Half Eagle?
- The coin is 90% gold. From 1838–1873, it also contained 10% silver/copper; from 1873–1907, it contained 10% copper.
- Why does some Liberty Head Half Eagles have “IN GOD WE TRUST”?
- The motto was added in 1866 following requests after the Civil War for a religious inscription on U.S. coinage.
- Are Liberty Head Half Eagles rare?
- Yes, especially in mint state. Many coins were melted during the 1930s gold recalls, making surviving specimens highly collectible.
- Who designed the Liberty Head Half Eagle?
- The initial design was created by Christian Gobrecht, with later contributions from James Longacre, William Barber, and Charles E. Barber.
Conclusion
The US $10 Liberty Head Half Eagle is not just a coin—it’s a symbol of American history, artistry, and enduring value. From its Neo-classical design to its role in reflecting the nation’s spiritual and economic challenges, this coin has captivated collectors for nearly two centuries.
At Premier Coin Galleries, we help collectors and investors discover and acquire these iconic coins, offering guidance, authentication, and insight into one of America’s most celebrated gold coin series.