1856 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
$28,200 MS63+ 10-26-2017 Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1856 Liberty Head Eagle is part of the Liberty Head Eagles 1838-1907 series. With a mintage of 60,490, this is a scarce issue — ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 42% of 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. Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans struck eagles. The denomination was well-established. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $2.5K to $20K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 16.7 grams, 26.8 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8619.
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