1839 Proof Classic Head Quarter Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$188,000 PR62 08-02-2012 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1839 Proof Classic Head Quarter Eagle is a proof Gold Quarter Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Classic Head Quarter Eagles 1834-1839 series. With a mintage of only 5, this is an extremely rare issue. 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, 17.5 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7715. The Classic Head Quarter Eagle was introduced in 1834 after the gold content of U.S. 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.