1838 Classic Head Quarter Eagle
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$235,000 MS67 09-15-2015 Stack's Bowers
Description
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1838 Classic Head Quarter Eagle is part of the Classic Head Quarter Eagles 1834-1839 series. With a mintage of 47,030, this is a scarce issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 86% of production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a fillet or headband inscribed LIBERTY and 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. The 1838-C is one of the first coins struck at the new Charlotte Mint — a milestone in Southern branch mint coinage. Philadelphia's mint — the nation's first — has produced coins without interruption since its founding in 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $947 to $15K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 4.18 grams, 18.2 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7696.
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