1856 (O) Liberty Head Double 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
$576,150 AU58 10-01-2008 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1856 (O) Liberty Head Double Eagle was struck at the New Orleans Mint as a Gold Double Eagle in the Liberty Head Double Eagles 1849-1907 series. With a mintage of 2,250, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 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 surrounded by a glory of rays. Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco production. Double eagles were primary instruments of gold commerce. New Orleans's branch mint, active from 1838 through 1909, produced coins that carry a distinct historical significance tied to the antebellum and postbellum South. Estimated market value ranges from $233K to $1220K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 33.4 grams, 34 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8918.
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