The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is one of the most intriguing and sought-after gold coins minted during the 19th century. Struck at the Charlotte Mint, this $2.50 gold coin offers collectors a connection to the early days of U.S. coinage and the history of Southern gold production. Its low mintage, rarity, and historical importance make it a highly desirable piece for numismatists and historians alike.
Historical Background
The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle series, designed by Christian Gobrecht, was introduced in 1840 and continued through 1907. The coin became a cornerstone of U.S. gold coinage, bridging the gap between small and large denominations. The Charlotte Mint, established in 1837, was one of the few mints in the U.S. to exclusively produce gold coins, using gold sourced from local mines during the Southern gold rush.
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle had a mintage of just 16,788 coins, which is modest even by Charlotte Mint standards. Many of these coins entered circulation and were heavily used, leaving a limited number of well-preserved specimens for collectors. Because of this, coins from the Charlotte Mint, especially in high grades, command significant premiums in the numismatic market.
Design and Specifications
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle features the classic design created by Gobrecht.
- Obverse: The obverse displays a left-facing profile of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Her hair is elegantly tied back with a few loose strands cascading down, and 13 stars encircle her image, representing the original 13 colonies. The date “1848” appears at the bottom.
- Reverse: The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast. The eagle clutches an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and readiness for defense. The denomination “2 1/2 D.” is inscribed below the eagle, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircling the design. The small “C” mintmark, denoting the Charlotte Mint, is located just above the denomination.
The coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a weight of 4.18 grams and a diameter of 18 millimeters. Its gold content equals 0.12094 troy ounces, giving it both numismatic and intrinsic value.
Rarity and Value
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is highly collectible due to its low mintage and Southern origin. Most examples found today are in lower grades due to their circulation history. In Very Fine (VF) condition, these coins are valued between $3,000 and $5,000. In Extremely Fine (EF) condition, they range from $6,000 to $9,000, while About Uncirculated (AU) coins can command $10,000 or more. Mint State examples are exceedingly rare and can fetch upwards of $25,000, depending on grade and eye appeal.
Collecting Tips
When collecting an 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, ensure the coin is authentic. Counterfeits and altered pieces are common in the marketplace, so purchasing from a reputable dealer or auction house is essential. Coins certified by grading services like PCGS or NGC are preferred, as they provide a guarantee of authenticity and grade.
Collectors should also pay attention to strike quality. Charlotte Mint coins are often weakly struck, particularly on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers. A coin with a strong strike and minimal wear will always command a premium.
Conclusion
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a remarkable piece of U.S. numismatic history. Its rarity, connection to the Charlotte Mint, and classic design make it a treasured addition to any collection. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a history enthusiast, this coin offers a tangible link to America’s gold rush era and its rich legacy of Southern minting.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle so valuable?
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is valuable due to its low mintage of just 16,788 coins and its historical connection to the Charlotte Mint, which produced gold coins during the Southern gold rush.
2. How much is the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle worth?
In lower grades like VF, the coin is worth around $3,000 to $5,000, while higher grades such as AU or Mint State can command upwards of $10,000 or more.
3. How can I authenticate an 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
To authenticate an 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, always purchase from reputable dealers or auction houses. Look for coins certified by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and accurate grading.