1897 Proof Liberty Head Half Eagle
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Value as of May 2026, from the one price recorded for this coin. Actual sales can differ. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $46,000
- Sold
- Grade
- PR66
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
Description
The 1897 Proof Liberty Head Half Eagle is a proof Gold Half Eagle struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Liberty Head Half Eagles 1839-1908 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 83 proof half eagles dated 1897. 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. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 8.36 grams, 21.65 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8492.
External References
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