1861 (C) Liberty Head Half 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
$164,500 MS63 12-03-2020 Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
The 1861 (C) Liberty Head Half Eagle was struck at the Charlotte Mint as a Gold Half Eagle in the Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908 series. With a mintage of 6,879, this is an extremely rare issue — ranked 2nd of 4 mint variants by mintage, with less than 1% 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. Charlotte and Dahlonega mints ceased operations due to the Civil War, ending Southern branch mint gold coinage. Charlotte's North Carolina mint operated from 1838 to 1861, striking gold coins from regional deposits — all Charlotte mint coins are scarce today. Estimated market value ranges from $12K to $121K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.65 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8289.
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