1861 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
$152,750 MS66 04-26-2015 Heritage Auctions
Description
A Gold Half Eagle from the Philadelphia Mint, the 1861 Liberty Head Half Eagle belongs to the Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908 series. The U.S. Mint produced 688,084 examples, making this the highest mintage among 4 variants, accounting for 96% of the year's 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. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $1.4K to $7.4K 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 #8288.
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