1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle: A Collector’s Guide

The 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a fascinating and rare coin from the pre-Civil War era. Minted at the Charlotte Mint in North Carolina, this coin is part of the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle series, which was produced from 1840 to 1907. The Charlotte Mint was established primarily to process gold discovered during the Carolina Gold Rush, and its coins are highly sought after due to their historical significance and low mintage figures.

History of the 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle

The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The series was introduced in 1840, featuring Gobrecht’s iconic design of Lady Liberty. The Charlotte Mint, where this coin was struck, operated from 1838 to 1861, exclusively producing gold coins. The “C” mintmark on the reverse of the coin indicates its origin in Charlotte, and coins from this mint are especially popular due to their association with the Southern gold rush.

Design and Specifications

The 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle shares the same design as other coins in the Liberty Head series.

• Obverse Design: The obverse features a profile of Lady Liberty facing left. She wears a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” and her hair is tied back with flowing curls. Thirteen stars encircle her image, representing the original colonies, and the date “1846” appears at the bottom.
• Reverse Design: The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other. The eagle is surrounded by the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with the denomination “2 1/2 D.” at the bottom. The mintmark “C” is located just above the denomination, signifying the Charlotte Mint.

The coin is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a diameter of approximately 18 millimeters and a weight of 4.18 grams.

Rarity and Value

The 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a rare coin due to its low mintage and limited survival rate. Many of these coins were lost or melted down over time, making surviving examples highly sought after.

The value of an 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle depends on its condition and grade:

• Coins in lower grades (such as Very Fine or Extremely Fine) are typically valued between $5,000 and $10,000.
• Specimens in About Uncirculated or Mint State condition can command prices exceeding $30,000, with some exceptional examples fetching even higher sums at auction.

When evaluating an 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, collectors should look for the coin’s original luster and strike quality. Coins from the Charlotte Mint often display weak strikes, particularly on the eagle’s feathers, due to the primitive minting techniques of the time.

Tips for Collectors

1. Authenticate the Coin: Charlotte Mint coins are highly collectible, which has unfortunately led to counterfeits entering the market. Ensure the coin is authenticated and graded by reputable organizations like PCGS or NGC.
2. Inspect the Mintmark: The “C” mintmark is a key feature of this coin. Verify that the mintmark is genuine and properly placed, as this is often a focus of counterfeiters.
3. Preservation Matters: Given the coin’s age, finding an example in good condition can be challenging. Consider coins that have been properly preserved and graded to ensure long-term value.

Conclusion

The 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a captivating coin with significant historical and numismatic value. Its origins in the Charlotte Mint, low mintage, and association with the Southern gold rush make it a prized piece for collectors. Whether you are an experienced numismatist or a history enthusiast, adding an 1846-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle to your collection is a rewarding investment in American history.

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