-
Inventory:
2 In Stock
- Product ID: 11493
Checkout
| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/27/24 05:36:01 | ||
Gold
 9.76
|
$2,642.30 | $2,655.48 |
The $5 Gold Liberty 1885-S Extra Fine (XF) coin is a significant artifact in American numismatic history, reflecting the economic and artistic values of the late 19th century. This coin is part of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, renowned for its intricate design and historical relevance. The 1885-S issue, in particular, is notable for its exceptional quality and the role it played during a transformative period in the United States.
The Liberty Head Half Eagle series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, who served as the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. Introduced in 1839, this series continued until 1908, spanning a period marked by substantial growth and development in the United States. The obverse of the 1885-S coin features the iconic Liberty Head design, with a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." Surrounding the portrait are thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, and the date "1885" is prominently displayed below.
The reverse of the $5 Gold Liberty coin is equally impressive, showcasing a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. This imagery symbolizes the nation’s desire for peace and readiness for defense, encapsulating the values of the era. Above the eagle's head is a banner with the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST," a motto adopted after the Civil War to reflect national unity and faith. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "FIVE D." encircle the eagle, completing the design with a sense of balance and symmetry.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1885-S coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint, which was established in 1854 during the California Gold Rush. The San Francisco Mint played a crucial role in producing coins that supported the rapidly growing economy of the western United States. Coins produced at this mint bear the "S" mintmark, distinguishing them from those produced at other facilities. The 1885-S $5 Gold Liberty coins are especially prized for their sharp details and the quality associated with the San Francisco Mint.
The mintage of the 1885-S $5 Gold Liberty coin was approximately 685,000. While this number might seem substantial, many of these coins were heavily circulated, lost, or melted down over the years, making well-preserved examples in Extra Fine condition relatively rare. Coins from this period that have survived with minimal wear are highly sought after by collectors and numismatists, enhancing their value and desirability.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the $5 Gold Liberty 1885-S coin exhibits sharp and clear details with only slight wear on the highest points of the design. The hair strands and coronet on Lady Liberty's portrait remain well-defined, and the intricate feathers on the eagle’s wings and body are still prominent. The fields, or flat surfaces of the coin, retain much of their original luster, providing a pleasing visual contrast to the raised design elements. Coins in this condition are prized for their beauty and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the past while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1885-S Extra Fine coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible link to America’s past, embodying the economic and cultural values of the time. The coin played a vital role in commerce during a period of rapid growth and development in the United States. The design reflects the nation’s ideals of liberty and strength, while the coin’s production at the historic San Francisco Mint underscores its importance in American numismatic history.
In summary, the $5 Gold Liberty 1885-S Extra Fine coin stands as a testament to the artistry and historical significance of late 19th-century American coinage. With its classic Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht, its production at the esteemed San Francisco Mint, and its relatively limited mintage, this coin is a treasured piece in any numismatic collection. It represents a significant era in American history, making it a valuable and meaningful collectible for those who appreciate the rich legacy of U.S. coinage.