1837 Classic Head Quarter Eagle

About This Coin

The 1837 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. 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.