-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 11489
The 1882 $5 Gold Liberty coin is a notable piece within the Liberty Head series, reflecting both the artistry and economic conditions of late 19th-century American coinage. The Liberty Head design, originally created by Christian Gobrecht, became an iconic representation of American values and aesthetics. The $5 denomination, known as the half eagle, was a vital component of the nation's gold coinage, playing an important role in daily transactions and economic activity during this period.
On the obverse of the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty, Liberty's portrait is rendered with exquisite detail. She is depicted facing left, adorned with a headband that bears the inscription "LIBERTY." The design is framed by a beaded border and thirteen stars, symbolizing the original American colonies. Liberty's flowing hair and serene expression reflect the classical ideals that were prevalent in American coin design at the time. The artistry of the coin highlights Gobrecht's skill in capturing the essence of American ideals through numismatic art.
The reverse of the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty features a detailed depiction of an eagle, which is a central motif in American numismatics. The eagle is shown with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, signifying peace and strength. The bird is encircled by a laurel wreath, with the inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above it. This motto, translating to "Out of many, one," reflects the unity of the United States. The denomination "$5" is prominently displayed below the eagle, clearly indicating the coin's value. The reverse design reinforces the themes of national pride and unity that were important to American identity during the late 19th century.
The 1882 $5 Gold Liberty was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, one of the principal minting facilities in the United States during the late 19th century. The Philadelphia Mint was known for its high-quality coin production and played a significant role in the nation's coinage history. The 1882 issue is part of the broader series of Liberty Head coins produced at this facility, highlighting Philadelphia's continued importance in American numismatics.
With a total mintage of approximately 1,326,000 pieces, the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty coin was produced in substantial quantities. This mintage figure reflects a period of relatively high production, contributing to the coin's availability in the market. However, despite the high mintage, the specific year and condition of the coin can impact its rarity and desirability among collectors. The 1882 coin is valued not only for its historical significance but also for its design and the quality of its preservation.
The condition of the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty coin is a critical aspect of its value and appeal. The XF (Extremely Fine) grade indicates that the coin is in excellent condition, with well-preserved details and only minor signs of wear. In XF condition, the coin exhibits clear and sharp design elements, with minimal surface wear. The preservation of intricate details such as Liberty's portrait and the eagle on the reverse is a testament to the coin's careful handling and storage over time. The XF grade is highly regarded by collectors for its balance of aesthetic appeal and historical integrity.
Overall, the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty coin stands as a significant example of American coinage from the late 19th century. Its design, minting history, and condition contribute to its status as a valuable and sought-after collectible. The coin not only reflects the economic and artistic context of its time but also serves as a lasting symbol of American heritage. For numismatists and enthusiasts, the 1882 $5 Gold Liberty remains a compelling and meaningful piece of American history, embodying the artistry and values that define the Liberty Head series.