1861 Eagle Patterns

About This Coin

The 1861 Eagle Patterns is a United States Gold Quarter Eagle from the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) series — the second year of the series. In 1861, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features experimental designs reflecting wartime themes including patriotic motifs and alternative compositions and the reverse displays various experimental designs. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. A notable auction result reached $13K in PR65BN grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by James Barton Longacre and other Mint engravers.