1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle: A Collector’s Guide

The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a significant coin in American numismatics, sought after by collectors for its rarity, historical importance, and unique features. Struck at the New Orleans Mint, this coin is part of a series of gold coins that feature the Liberty Head design, which was used on several U.S. gold coins from the mid-19th century. In this guide, we will explore the history, design, rarity, and value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, helping collectors and enthusiasts understand why it remains a highly prized item in the numismatic community.

Historical Background

The quarter eagle, which refers to the $2.50 denomination, was first minted in 1796, and the Liberty Head design was introduced in 1840. The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was produced by the New Orleans Mint, one of several U.S. minting facilities that were active during this period. This coin was part of a series struck to meet the demand for gold coins during the California Gold Rush and the increasing use of gold in both domestic and international trade.

Design Features

The Liberty Head design on the 1852-O quarter eagle was created by Christian Gobrecht, who also designed several other iconic coins for the U.S. Mint, including the Seated Liberty coins. The design features distinct details that make it an appealing coin for collectors.

• Obverse: The obverse of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle features a bust of Lady Liberty, facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Surrounding the bust are 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies, and the inscription “1852” indicating the year of mintage.
• Reverse: The reverse side of the coin displays an eagle with its wings spread wide, a symbol of strength and freedom. The eagle holds arrows and an olive branch in its talons, representing the balance between war and peace. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appears above the eagle, and “$2.50” is displayed at the bottom, signifying the coin’s denomination.

The design’s elegance and classical motifs make it one of the most visually appealing gold coins of its time.

Rarity and Mintage

The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is one of the more scarce coins in the series, with a relatively low mintage of just 68,000 coins. While the New Orleans Mint struck many coins throughout the 19th century, it was known for producing smaller numbers of certain denominations, including the quarter eagle. This lower mintage has contributed to the coin’s rarity in high-grade examples, making it highly sought after by collectors.

Value and Collectibility

The value of the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle can vary widely depending on its condition and rarity. In circulated grades, such as Very Fine (VF) or Fine (F), the coin can be found for around $1,500 to $2,000. In higher grades, such as Extremely Fine (EF) or About Uncirculated (AU), prices can rise significantly to $3,000 or more. Coins that are in Mint State (MS), particularly those with a grade of MS-60 or higher, are extremely rare and can be valued anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or beyond, depending on their exact condition.

Conclusion

The 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a noteworthy coin with historical significance and numismatic appeal. Its design, rarity, and connection to the New Orleans Mint make it a prized piece in any collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this coin offers a rare glimpse into early U.S. coinage and a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. With its limited mintage and enduring popularity, the 1852-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle continues to be an exciting and valuable coin for collectors worldwide.

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