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The Certified U.S. Gold $2.5 Sesquicentennial 1926 UNC Details NGC is a numismatic treasure that commemorates the 150th anniversary of American independence. Issued by the United States Mint as part of a broader program to celebrate the sesquicentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this gold quarter eagle holds a special place in U.S. coinage history. Struck in 1926, it was one of two gold coins released for the event, alongside the larger $1 Sesquicentennial gold coin. The $2.5 gold piece was intended to honor the nation's founders while also promoting patriotism and national pride. As a certified example graded UNC Details by NGC, this coin retains strong original detail, though it has been designated as having a non-standard surface characteristic.
The concept of commemorative coinage was gaining traction in the early 20th century, and the U.S. Mint was increasingly producing special issue coins to mark significant events. The Sesquicentennial Exposition, held in Philadelphia in 1926, served as the perfect occasion for a commemorative gold issue. This international fair showcased the progress of the United States since its founding, attracting visitors from around the world. The gold $2.5 coin was minted to provide collectors and the general public with a tangible memento of the occasion, though sales were not as robust as expected, resulting in relatively low distribution figures. Today, this coin is an important piece of American history and is highly sought after by collectors.
The obverse of the 1926 Sesquicentennial $2.5 gold coin features a left-facing portrait of George Washington, designed by John R. Sinnock, who would later design the Roosevelt Dime. Washington’s profile is striking, with fine details in his hair and facial features that capture his dignified presence. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “LIBERTY” above and the dual dates “1776 – 1926” below, marking the 150-year span between the founding of the United States and the year of the coin’s issuance. The design represents a departure from the classical allegorical figures typically used on early U.S. gold coinage, instead opting for a direct and realistic depiction of the nation’s first president.
The reverse of the coin features an image of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, a fitting tribute to the location where the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed in 1776. The finely detailed engraving of the building captures its historic significance, with the central tower and windows clearly visible. Above Independence Hall, the motto “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is inscribed in an arc, while the denomination “2½ DOLLARS” is placed prominently at the bottom. The national motto, “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” is inscribed below the hall, reinforcing the unity of the states. The reverse design successfully encapsulates the historical theme of the coin, paying tribute to one of the most important locations in American history.
The 1926 Sesquicentennial $2.5 gold coin was minted exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, the nation’s primary minting facility. Unlike the larger $1 Sesquicentennial gold coin, which had a wider distribution, the quarter eagle saw limited demand from the public. A total of 200,000 pieces were struck, but many remained unsold and were later melted by the U.S. Mint, reducing the surviving population significantly. This relatively low mintage has contributed to the coin’s scarcity, especially in higher grades. Despite its limited success as a commemorative issue at the time, it has since become a prized collectible due to its historical significance and classic design.
The composition of the 1926 Sesquicentennial $2.5 gold coin follows the traditional standard for U.S. gold coinage of the period, featuring 90% gold and 10% copper. This alloy, which had been used for most pre-1933 U.S. gold coins, provided durability while maintaining a high intrinsic value. The coin weighs 4.18 grams and has a diameter of 18 millimeters, making it one of the smaller gold denominations issued by the U.S. Mint. Its compact size, combined with its rich historical background, makes it an appealing piece for both collectors and investors alike.
A Certified U.S. Gold $2.5 Sesquicentennial 1926 graded UNC Details by NGC indicates that the coin retains strong original detail but has a specific characteristic that prevents it from receiving a numeric grade. The “UNC” (Uncirculated) designation suggests that the coin has never entered circulation and does not exhibit typical signs of wear. However, the “Details” designation means that the coin has been altered in some way, such as cleaning, improper storage effects, or minor surface damage. While this designation may affect numismatic value to some extent, many collectors still appreciate these coins for their historic and intrinsic gold value.
The obverse of an UNC Details specimen should still showcase sharp and well-defined features in Washington’s portrait. The fine details in his hair and facial features should remain crisp, with no signs of flattening or smoothing that would indicate circulation wear. The inscriptions should be clear and fully legible, with no significant loss of detail. The original luster may be present, though some cleaned examples might exhibit a slightly altered sheen compared to untouched pieces.
The reverse of an UNC Details specimen should display Independence Hall with all its architectural details clearly visible. The windows, tower, and surrounding text should remain sharp and well-struck. The fields of the coin may show some minor marks or evidence of cleaning, depending on the specific reason for the “Details” designation. However, the overall presentation should still be appealing, particularly if the coin maintains strong eye appeal despite any surface imperfections.
One of the key factors affecting the desirability of an UNC Details specimen is its overall appearance. Coins with minimal signs of cleaning or surface alteration tend to be more attractive to collectors than those with harsh abrasions or heavy polishing. When evaluating a details-graded coin, collectors often consider the strength of the strike, the level of remaining mint luster, and the visibility of key design elements. While numerically graded examples are typically preferred, details-graded coins can offer a more affordable entry point into collecting historic gold coinage.
The 1926 Sesquicentennial $2.5 gold coin is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, representing a pivotal moment in the nation's commemoration of its founding. As one of the first commemorative gold coins issued by the U.S. Mint, it paved the way for future issues celebrating American heritage. Its design, featuring both George Washington and Independence Hall, makes it a visually striking and historically meaningful piece. Collectors who appreciate early U.S. commemorative coinage recognize this issue as a key component of any serious collection.
For those looking to acquire a Certified U.S. Gold $2.5 Sesquicentennial 1926 UNC Details NGC, reputable numismatic dealers, auction houses, and online certified coin marketplaces provide the best purchasing opportunities. Buyers should ensure that the coin is encapsulated in an NGC-certified holder, confirming its authenticity and grade. While details-graded coins may not command the same premium as problem-free examples, they still hold strong appeal due to their gold content and historical significance.
The Certified U.S. Gold $2.5 Sesquicentennial 1926 UNC Details NGC remains an enduring tribute to America’s independence and numismatic heritage. Its classic design, limited mintage, and connection to a landmark historical event make it a prized addition to any collection. Whether acquired for its gold content, its historical value, or its artistic beauty, this coin continues to be a cherished piece of American coinage history.