1838 Classic Head Half Eagle
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$253,000 MS66 01-01-2008 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1838 Classic Head Half Eagle is a Gold Half Eagle produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Classic Head Half Eagles 1834-1838 series. The U.S. Mint produced 286,588 examples. 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 8.36 grams, 22.5 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8176. Like its Quarter Eagle counterpart, the Classic Head Half Eagle was introduced after the 1834 gold weight reduction. A transitional series including the first Charlotte and Dahlonega mint gold coins (1838). Short-lived and accessible to type collectors.
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