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
The 1861 Liberty Head Half Eagle is a Gold Half Eagle produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of 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. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation 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.
External References
Error Varieties
No listings found
This category doesn't have any child listings yet.