1879 (S) Liberty Head Double 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
$63,250 MS64 09-27-2007 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1879 (S) Liberty Head Double Eagle was struck at the San Francisco Mint as a Gold Double Eagle in the Liberty Head Double Eagles 1849-1907 series. With a mintage of 1.2 million, this is a less common issue — the highest mintage among 4 variants, accounting for 85% 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 surrounded by a glory of rays. Resumption of specie payments. Double eagles re-entered domestic and international circulation. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $4.9K to $45K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 33.4 grams, 34 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8991.
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