-
Inventory:
2 In Stock
- Product ID: 11498
Checkout
The $5 Gold Liberty 1892 Extra Fine (XF) coin is a remarkable specimen within the rich tapestry of American numismatics, capturing the artistic and historical essence of the late 19th century. This coin is a part of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, esteemed for its elegant design and historical significance. The 1892 issue, in particular, stands out for its detailed craftsmanship and the important role it played in the economic activities of its time.
The Liberty Head Half Eagle series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, who was the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. This series was introduced in 1839 and continued until 1908, marking an era of significant growth and transformation in the United States. The obverse of the 1892 coin features the classic Liberty Head design, with a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She is adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original thirteen colonies. The date "1892" is prominently displayed below the portrait, encapsulating the period's artistry and national pride.
The reverse of the $5 Gold Liberty coin is equally striking, showcasing a powerful eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. This imagery symbolizes the nation’s desire for peace and its readiness for defense, reflecting the values of the time. Above the eagle's head is a banner with the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST," a motto that was adopted post-Civil War to signify national unity and faith. Encircling the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "FIVE D.," completing the design with a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1892 coin was minted at several facilities, including the Philadelphia, Carson City, New Orleans, and San Francisco Mints. Each mint played a crucial role in producing coins to support the nation's growing economy. Coins from the Philadelphia Mint do not bear a mintmark, whereas those from the other facilities are marked with their respective mintmarks: "CC" for Carson City, "O" for New Orleans, and "S" for San Francisco. The quality and craftsmanship of these mints ensured that the 1892 $5 Gold Liberty coins were produced to high standards, making them highly desirable among collectors.
The mintage of the 1892 $5 Gold Liberty coin varied across the different mints. For example, the Philadelphia Mint produced 1,543,000 coins, the Carson City Mint produced 82,968 coins, the New Orleans Mint produced 197,000 coins, and the San Francisco Mint produced 735,000 coins. Although the total mintage may appear substantial, many of these coins were lost, heavily circulated, or melted down over time. As a result, well-preserved examples in Extra Fine condition are relatively rare and highly sought after by numismatists.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the $5 Gold Liberty 1892 coin displays 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, offering a pleasing visual contrast to the raised design elements. Coins in this condition are cherished for their beauty and historical significance, providing a window into the past while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1892 Extra Fine coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to America’s past, embodying the economic and cultural values of the era. This 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 multiple historic mints underscores its significance in American numismatic history.
In summary, the $5 Gold Liberty 1892 Extra Fine coin stands as a testament to the artistry and historical importance of late 19th-century American coinage. With its classic Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht, its production across several esteemed mints, 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.