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The $5 Gold Liberty 1895 Extra Fine (XF) coin is an exquisite representation of American coinage from the late 19th century, combining historical significance, artistic design, and numismatic value. This coin is part of the esteemed Liberty Head Half Eagle series, which was minted from 1839 to 1908, reflecting a dynamic period in U.S. history. The 1895 issue, in particular, is a prized collectible, admired for its detailed craftsmanship and historical context.
The Liberty Head Half Eagle series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. Gobrecht's design for the obverse features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." Surrounding Liberty are thirteen stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies, and the date "1895" is positioned below her image. This classic design exemplifies the artistic elegance and patriotic themes common in American coinage of the era.
The reverse of the $5 Gold Liberty coin showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. This powerful imagery represents the nation's desire for peace and its preparedness for defense. Above the eagle's head is a ribbon with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," a phrase adopted to express national faith and unity following the Civil War. 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 1895 coin was minted at three facilities: Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. Each mint contributed to the production of these coins to meet the demands of the growing American economy. Coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint do not bear a mintmark, whereas those from New Orleans are marked with an "O," and those from San Francisco carry an "S" mintmark. These mintmarks provide important clues for collectors and historians, helping to trace the coin's origin and history.
The mintage of the 1895 $5 Gold Liberty coin varied significantly across the different mints. The Philadelphia Mint produced 117,948 coins, the New Orleans Mint struck 42,000 coins, and the San Francisco Mint minted 688,000 coins. While the total mintage might suggest a relatively high production, many of these coins have not survived in collectible condition. As a result, finding well-preserved examples, especially in Extra Fine condition, can be a rewarding challenge for collectors.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the $5 Gold Liberty 1895 coin retains much of its original detail and luster, despite slight wear from circulation. The highest points of the design, such as Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers, show minor signs of wear but remain well-defined. The coin's fields, or flat surfaces, maintain a significant amount of their original mint luster, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. This condition level offers a pleasing balance between historical authenticity and visual beauty, making it a desirable addition to any numismatic collection.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1895 coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to a transformative period in American history. This coin circulated during a time of industrial growth, westward expansion, and social change, playing a vital role in everyday commerce. Its design reflects the values and aspirations of the nation, celebrating liberty, strength, and unity through its imagery and inscriptions.
The historical significance of the $5 Gold Liberty 1895 coin extends beyond its economic function. It represents an era when gold coins were a standard medium of exchange, offering a glimpse into the financial practices and cultural values of the time. Collectors and historians alike appreciate the coin's ability to tell a story, connecting present-day enthusiasts with the past through its enduring legacy.
In conclusion, the $5 Gold Liberty 1895 Extra Fine coin stands as a remarkable artifact of American numismatic history. With its timeless design by Christian Gobrecht, its production across multiple mints, and its relatively limited mintage, this coin holds significant value for collectors and historians. Its well-preserved condition and historical context make it a cherished piece, offering both aesthetic appeal and a deep connection to America's past. As a representation of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, the 1895 issue continues to captivate and inspire those who appreciate the rich heritage of U.S. coinage.