1878 (S) Liberty Head Half Eagle
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
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
- $19,800
- Sold
- Grade
- MS65
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
Description
Produced at the San Francisco Mint, the 1878 (S) Liberty Head Half Eagle is part of the Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908 series. The San Francisco Mint struck 144,700 half eagles dated 1878. 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 the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll above the eagle. The Bland-Allison Act focused on silver, but gold half eagle production continued at three mints. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.65 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8347.
External References
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