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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 11483
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/27/24 05:37:01 | ||
Gold
 10.64
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$2,643.22 | $2,656.32 |
The $5 Gold Liberty coin from 1879, also known as the Liberty Head half eagle, stands as a remarkable example of American coinage from the late 19th century. This coin, with its intricate design and historical significance, represents an era of significant development in U.S. currency. Struck during the height of the coin's production run, the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty embodies both the artistic and economic considerations of its time, making it a valued piece for collectors and historians alike.
The Liberty Head design, created by sculptor Christian Gobrecht, was first introduced in 1838 and became a defining symbol of American coinage throughout the mid-19th century. The design was part of a broader series of coins featuring Liberty, including the larger $10 gold eagle and the smaller $2.50 quarter eagle. The 1879 issue is particularly notable as it falls within the final years of this design’s use, before it was replaced by the Liberty Head design by James Longacre in the 1890s. The Liberty Head design on the $5 coin is renowned for its classical representation of Liberty, portrayed as a young woman with a diadem, or headband, inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." This design reflects both the ideals and aesthetics of the era, capturing the essence of American ideals and craftsmanship.
The obverse of the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty features a detailed and regal portrait of Liberty, facing left. Her hair is arranged in a free-flowing style, and the headband is adorned with stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies. The word "LIBERTY" is prominently displayed across the headband. Surrounding Liberty is a beaded border, and the coin's outer edge features thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen states of the Union. This combination of elements underscores the national pride and artistic sensibilities of the time.
On the reverse, the design showcases a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows. The eagle is encircled by a laurel wreath, symbolizing peace and strength. Above the eagle is a banner with the inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM," a Latin phrase meaning "Out of many, one," reflecting the unity of the United States. The denomination "$5" is clearly marked below the eagle, emphasizing the coin's value. The reverse design captures the spirit of American nationalism and the values of the era, reinforcing the symbolism of the nation's strength and unity.
The minting of the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty coin was carried out at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for the United States at that time. Philadelphia, as the nation's first mint, played a crucial role in producing a significant portion of the country's coinage during the 19th century. The 1879 issue, along with other coins minted during this period, was part of a broader effort to maintain a stable and reliable currency system as the United States continued to expand and develop economically.
The mintage of the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty coin was relatively modest compared to other years, with a total of 1,464,200 coins produced. This mintage level contributes to the coin's desirability among collectors, as lower mintage figures often correlate with increased rarity and value. The 1879 issue is particularly sought after in higher grades due to its relatively limited production and the historical significance of its design and era.
The condition of the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty coin is an important factor in its value and appeal. The XF (Extremely Fine) grade indicates that the coin is in excellent condition, with only minor signs of wear and handling. In this grade, the coin retains much of its original detail and luster, though some of the finer design elements may show slight wear. Coins in XF condition are highly regarded by collectors for their well-preserved state, which allows for a clear view of the intricate designs and inscriptions that define the coin.
Overall, the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty coin represents a significant piece of American numismatic history. Its design, minting details, and condition contribute to its status as a valuable and desirable collectible. The coin not only reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of its time but also serves as a tangible link to the economic and cultural development of the United States during the late 19th century. For collectors and enthusiasts, the 1879 $5 Gold Liberty remains a compelling example of the enduring legacy of American coinage.