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Inventory:
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- Product ID: 54019
The Certified $10 Gold Liberty 1886-S, graded MS63+ by PCGS and approved by CAC, is an exceptional example of a U.S. gold coin from the late 19th century. The MS63+ grade indicates a coin that is of high quality, with only the most minor imperfections, while the CAC approval adds further assurance that this coin is among the best of its grade. The $10 Liberty Head, also known as the Eagle, was designed by Christian Gobrecht and was minted from 1838 to 1907. This particular coin, struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1886, stands out as a piece of American history that represents both artistry and the economic power of the era.
The Liberty Head Eagle was created to replace the earlier Capped Bust design, with Christian Gobrecht’s depiction of Lady Liberty intended to symbolize the nation’s ideals of freedom and democracy. On the obverse of the 1886-S Gold Liberty, Lady Liberty is shown facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." Her hair is tied back in a bun, with curls cascading down her neck. She is surrounded by 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies, with the date "1886" below. The MS63+ grade ensures that the details on the obverse are crisp, with strong luster and only slight contact marks that are difficult to detect without magnification. The coin’s surfaces are radiant, showcasing the intricate artistry of Liberty’s profile.
The reverse of the 1886-S $10 Gold Liberty features a majestic bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing both readiness for war and a desire for peace. The national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed on a ribbon above the eagle, and the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "TEN D." encircle the design. The reverse also bears the "S" mintmark, denoting that the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. In this MS63+ example, the eagle’s feathers and the details of the arrows and olive branch are sharply defined, with a luster that enhances the coin’s overall visual appeal. The CAC designation adds further value, as it signifies that the coin has met strict quality standards and is considered a premium example within its grade.
The 1886-S $10 Gold Liberty was struck during a time of economic growth and expansion in the United States. Gold coins played a crucial role in American commerce, particularly in the western states, where gold mining was a major industry. The San Francisco Mint, established in 1854, was created to strike gold coins from the vast quantities of gold being mined in California. The "S" mintmark on this coin connects it to the legacy of the California Gold Rush and the westward expansion of the United States. The San Francisco Mint was known for producing high-quality coins, and the 1886-S Gold Liberty is no exception, with many surviving examples exhibiting strong strikes and attractive surfaces.
The mintage of the 1886-S $10 Gold Liberty was relatively low, with only 86,000 coins struck that year. This limited mintage, combined with the coin’s age and the fact that many gold coins were melted down over the years, makes high-grade examples like this MS63+ piece particularly scarce. Finding a well-preserved example from the 19th century is rare, and the combination of the PCGS grade and the CAC sticker ensures that this coin stands out as a top-tier collectible. Coins with the "+" designation from PCGS indicate that the coin is at the high end of the grade spectrum, just shy of the next grade level, making this 1886-S Gold Liberty even more desirable for collectors.
The Liberty Head Eagle series was eventually replaced in 1907 by the Indian Head design, created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, which ushered in a new era of American coinage. However, the Liberty Head design remains a favorite among collectors for its classical beauty and historical significance. The 1886-S $10 Gold Liberty represents a time when the United States was solidifying its position as an economic powerhouse, and gold coins were an essential part of the nation’s monetary system. This coin not only has aesthetic appeal but also serves as a tangible connection to America’s past.
The Certified $10 Gold Liberty 1886-S MS63+ PCGS CAC is a truly outstanding example of a classic U.S. gold coin. Its high grade, limited mintage, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection. The combination of the San Francisco Mint’s reputation for quality, the PCGS certification, and the CAC approval ensures that this coin will be a prized possession for years to come. Whether collected for its beauty, its investment potential, or its connection to American history, the 1886-S $10 Gold Liberty is a remarkable piece that will continue to captivate collectors and investors alike.