1856 (S) Liberty Head Half Eagle

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1856

Denomination

Gold Half Eagle

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908

Designer

Christian Gobrecht

Mintage

105,100

Composition

90% Gold, 10% Copper

Weight

8.36g

Diameter

21.65mm

Edge

Reeded

Value Estimates

$1,492 - $31,488

Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.

Auction Record

Price realized: $33,600
Sold: 13 April 2022
Grade: MS62
Auction house: Stack's Bowers

Description

A Gold Half Eagle from the San Francisco Mint, the 1856 (S) Liberty Head Half Eagle belongs to the Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908 series. The San Francisco Mint struck 105,100 half eagles dated 1856. 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. Charlotte, Dahlonega, New Orleans and San Francisco all produced half eagles alongside Philadelphia. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.65 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8270.