The 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a highly sought-after coin in the world of numismatics. Struck at multiple U.S. Mint locations in 1847, it features a distinct design by Christian Gobrecht, making it a valuable piece for collectors. This guide will take you through its history, features, rarity, and current market value.
The History and Design of the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was produced as part of the U.S. Mint’s regular coinage. It carries a denomination of $2.50 and is made from an alloy of 90% gold and 10% copper. The coin features a portrait of Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse, both designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint.
In 1847, the coin was minted in four different locations: Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans. The most valuable of these coins is the one struck in Philadelphia, due to its low survival rate, especially in higher grades. With a mintage of just 29,814, it is considered rare, and finding one in Mint State condition is difficult. This makes it highly prized by collectors.
The Rare “Repunched 18” Variety
A unique feature of the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is the “repunched 18” variety. In some coins, the numbers “18” in the date were struck twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect. This variety was first noticed in a 1951 auction and continues to be sought after by collectors. The doubling is most visible on the “1,” where the base touches the coin’s denticles (the small raised bumps along the edge).
This variety can increase the value of the coin significantly, especially if it is in good condition. Coins with the repunched “18” are considered rare, adding to the coin’s allure in the market.
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
The 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has seen a steady rise in value, with several specimens fetching impressive prices at auctions. Coins that are graded highly, such as “MS64” (Mint State 64) or “MS63,” are the most valuable and are highly coveted by collectors. Specimens certified by major grading services like PCGS and NGC often fetch higher prices.
Here’s a quick summary of the important details for the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle based on its specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1847 |
| Denomination | $2.50 (Quarter Eagle) |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 29,814 |
| Alloy | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 4.18 grams |
| Diameter | 18.00 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| Quality | Business Strike |
As you can see from the table, the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a small, gold coin with reeded edges and a weight of just over 4 grams. The combination of its precious metal content and the historical significance of the coin makes it a desirable item for numismatists.
Conclusion
The 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a rare and valuable coin with a rich history. Its design, low mintage, and the scarcity of high-quality examples make it highly prized by collectors. For anyone interested in numismatics, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of American history. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle should be a key addition to your collection.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle rare?
The 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is rare because of its low mintage of only 29,814 coins, especially from the Philadelphia Mint. Finding one in good condition, particularly in Mint State grades, is challenging, making it highly valuable to collectors.
What is the “repunched 18” variety on the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The “repunched 18” variety refers to a coin where the “18” in the date appears doubled. This error is most noticeable on the number “1” of the date, and coins with this variety are more sought after and can fetch higher prices.
How much is the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle worth today?
The value of the 1847 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle varies based on its grade. In higher grades like MS64, it can be worth thousands of dollars. Coins in lower grades may sell for less, but even in these conditions, it remains a valuable collector’s item.