The 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle is a historic and highly sought-after coin that marks an important chapter in U.S. numismatics. Struck at the Charlotte Mint, this coin holds special appeal to collectors due to its limited mintage, regional significance, and transitional design. This guide will delve into its history, design, mintage, value, and what makes it a prized piece for numismatists.
History and Background
The 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle was minted during a transformative period in American coinage. This was the first year the Liberty Head design, crafted by Christian Gobrecht, replaced the Classic Head series. The coin also represents the second year of production at the Charlotte Mint, which opened in 1838 to process gold mined from the Southern Appalachian region.
The coin’s regional association with the Charlotte Mint makes it especially valuable to collectors of Southern gold. As the only year the Liberty Head design featured a unique, slightly larger head portrait (known as the “Type of 1839”), the 1839-C stands out as a one-year subtype, adding to its rarity and desirability.
Design and Specifications
The 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle showcases Christian Gobrecht’s Liberty Head design, which became a hallmark of U.S. coinage for decades.
- Obverse (Front): Features Lady Liberty’s portrait, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY.” Her hair is tied back in a bun, and thirteen stars encircle her head, symbolizing the original colonies. The date “1839” appears at the bottom.
- Reverse (Back): Depicts a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching an olive branch and arrows. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “FIVE D.” surround the design.
Specifications:
- Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
- Weight: 8.36 grams
- Diameter: 22.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded
The coin’s subtle differences in Liberty’s portrait make it a unique transitional piece within the Liberty Head Half Eagle series.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle had a total mintage of 17,205 coins, a modest number even by 19th-century standards. Many of these coins saw heavy circulation in the Southern states, where gold coins were widely used for commerce.
Today, surviving examples are scarce, with fewer than 300 believed to exist in all grades. High-grade specimens are exceedingly rare and highly coveted by collectors.
Value and Collectibility
The value of the 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle depends on its condition and originality. Heavily worn coins are valuable due to their rarity, while well-preserved pieces command significant premiums.
- Fine (F-12): $5,000–$7,000
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $15,000–$25,000
- Mint State (MS-60 or higher): $60,000+
Professional grading by PCGS or NGC is essential to authenticate and maximize the value of this coin. Originality, including unaltered surfaces and minimal cleaning, significantly impacts desirability and price.
Tips for Collectors
- Prioritize Certification: Always seek coins graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and quality.
- Understand Rarity: The 1839-C is a one-year subtype with a unique design, making it a key piece for Liberty Head collectors.
- Inspect Details: Look for sharp details on Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers, as these are indicators of minimal wear.
- Beware of Counterfeits: Given its value, the 1839-C is often counterfeited or altered from other dates. Ensure the coin’s authenticity with professional evaluation.
Conclusion
The 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle represents a fascinating blend of history, artistry, and regional significance. Its status as a one-year subtype and its connection to the early years of the Charlotte Mint make it an essential piece for collectors of Southern gold and Liberty Head coinage.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a newcomer to gold coin collecting, the 1839-C offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of American history. Its beauty, rarity, and legacy ensure it will remain a treasured collectible for generations to come.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle significant?
The coin is a one-year subtype with a unique portrait design, minted during the early years of the Charlotte Mint. Its rarity and historical value make it highly collectible.
2. How can I authenticate an 1839-C Liberty Head Half Eagle?
Look for professional grading from PCGS or NGC, which certifies the coin’s authenticity and condition. Beware of counterfeits or altered coins.
3. What makes Charlotte Mint coins desirable?
Charlotte Mint coins were struck in limited quantities using locally mined gold, making them historically significant and highly sought-after by collectors.