1838 Proof Liberty Head 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
$550,000 PR63 05-01-1998 David Akers
Description
The 1838 Proof Liberty Head Eagle is a proof Gold Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Liberty Head Eagles 1838-1907 series. With a mintage of 5, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a coronet 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. First year of the Liberty Head Eagle, replacing the Capped Bust design after a 34-year gap in eagle production. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $689K. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 16.7 grams, 26.8 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8770.
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