1836 Classic Head Quarter Eagle

About This Coin

The 1836 Classic Head Quarter Eagle is a United States Gold Quarter Eagle from the Classic Head Quarter Eagles 1834-1839 series. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a fillet or headband inscribed LIBERTY, while the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM without the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Designed by William Kneass. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 4.18 grams, with a reeded edge. Produced at the Philadelphia Mint. The Classic Head Quarter Eagle was introduced in 1834 after the gold content of U.S. coins was reduced to prevent them from being melted for bullion. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM was removed to distinguish the new lighter coins from the heavier pre-1834 issues. A short series spanning 1834-1839 that bridges the gap between early and mid-19th century gold coinage. The Charlotte (C) and Dahlonega (D) mintmark issues of 1838-1839 are the first Southern branch mint gold coins.