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Inventory:
2 In Stock
- Product ID: 11506
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/27/24 05:29:01 | ||
Gold
 7.05
|
$2,639.72 | $2,652.63 |
The $5 Gold Liberty 1899 Extra Fine (XF) coin is a remarkable artifact from the late 19th century, representing the enduring legacy of American numismatic history. As part of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, which was minted from 1839 to 1908, this coin embodies the economic vigor and artistic craftsmanship of its era. The 1899 issue is particularly notable for its design, historical context, and production details, making it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike.
The Liberty Head Half Eagle series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. The obverse of the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." This elegant depiction is framed by thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, with the date "1899" prominently displayed below. Gobrecht's design is celebrated for its classical beauty and symbolic representation of the nation's ideals of liberty and democracy.
The reverse of the coin showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. Above the eagle is a ribbon with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," reflecting the nation's faith and unity. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "FIVE D." encircle the eagle, creating a balanced and harmonious design. This reverse design symbolizes the country's aspirations for peace and readiness for defense, echoing the sentiments of a growing and resilient nation.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin was minted at three different facilities: Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. Each mint is identifiable by its unique mintmark, located below the eagle on the reverse side of the coin. The Philadelphia Mint, being the original and main mint, did not use a mintmark. The New Orleans Mint is marked with an "O," and the San Francisco Mint with an "S." The production of these coins across multiple mints underscores the widespread demand and circulation of gold coinage during this period.
The mintage of the 1899 $5 Gold Liberty coin varies depending on the mint. The Philadelphia Mint produced 1,710,100 coins, making it the most prolific of the three mints that year. The New Orleans Mint produced 75,100 coins, while the San Francisco Mint produced 1,053,175 coins. Despite these seemingly large numbers, many of these coins were lost to melting or wear over time, making well-preserved examples particularly valuable to collectors today.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin exhibits light wear on the highest points of the design, such as Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers. However, the overall detail and luster remain sharp and appealing. The fields, or flat surfaces, show minimal abrasion, retaining much of their original mint brilliance. This condition offers a desirable balance between historical authenticity and visual appeal, making the coin an attractive addition to any collection.
The historical significance of the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin extends beyond its role as currency. It circulated during a transformative period in American history, witnessing the nation's industrial expansion and increasing global influence. The coin's design and inscriptions reflect the values and aspirations of the time, celebrating liberty, strength, and national unity. As such, it serves as a tangible link to the past, offering insights into the economic and cultural landscape of the late 19th century.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin also holds considerable appeal for numismatists and historians due to its association with the broader Liberty Head series. This series is renowned for its artistic merit and historical significance, with each coin telling a unique story of America's development. Collectors appreciate the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin for its well-executed design by Christian Gobrecht, whose work continues to be celebrated for its elegance and symbolic resonance.
The production of the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 coin across multiple mints highlights the logistical and economic efforts required to sustain the nation's currency needs during this era. Each mint played a crucial role in producing high-quality gold coinage, meeting the demands of a growing and increasingly interconnected economy. The coins from different mints provide collectors with a rich tapestry of American numismatic history, reflecting regional variations and the evolving landscape of U.S. coin production.
In conclusion, the $5 Gold Liberty 1899 Extra Fine coin is a remarkable piece of American history, combining classical design, historical context, and high-quality craftsmanship. Its significance extends beyond its intrinsic value as a gold coin, offering collectors and historians a window into the economic, cultural, and artistic heritage of the United States. The 1899 issue, with its well-preserved condition and rich historical background, remains a cherished artifact for those who appreciate the beauty and legacy of U.S. coinage. This coin not only represents a tangible connection to the past but also embodies the enduring spirit of American liberty and resilience.