1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle: A Treasure of American Coinage

The 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a fascinating coin that collectors and history lovers find interesting. It was made in New Orleans, one of the United States’ important mints during the 1800s. This guide will help you learn about the coin’s history, production, features, and why it is valued by collectors.

History of the New Orleans Mint

The New Orleans Mint was created as part of the Coinage Act of 1838. It was one of three branch mints established to help with the growing demand for coins in the United States. While the other two mints in Charlotte and Dahlonega focused mainly on gold from local mines, the New Orleans Mint was vital for producing coins from both gold and silver, especially coins that were originally Spanish.

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In 1851, the New Orleans Mint produced coins in ten different types, but it did not strike the cent, half cent, or silver dollar. Interestingly, New Orleans did not make copper coins until 1908, just before the mint closed.

Coin Production in 1851

Here’s a quick look at the coins made by the New Orleans Mint in 1851:

As shown, the Liberty Head Quarter Eagle had a total production of 148,000 coins, making it relatively easy to find today compared to other rare coins.

Understanding the 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle

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The 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is notable but not rare. It has the second-highest mintage among its series, which means many examples still exist. Collectors often find coins in grades like MS61 and MS62, but some may appear “slidery,” meaning they show wear despite being high-grade coins.

Market Data and Notable Specimens

Here are some details on notable 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagles:

• PCGS MS64: Sold for $20,700 in a 2007 auction, this coin features a doubled date and some scratches, but it is in excellent condition.
• PCGS MS63: Valued at $12,650, this coin has notable marks and discoloration.
• PCGS MS62: This specimen sold for $4,600 and has some flaws but is still sought after.

These details show that while the 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle may not be the rarest coin, collectors value it for its quality and history.

Coin Varieties

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The 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has two notable varieties identified by coin expert Doug Winter. Both varieties share the same reverse design but differ in the date:

1. Variety 1: This version has a doubled date due to an error during production.
2. Standard Version: This is the regular coin without the doubled date.

These varieties can affect the coin’s value and desirability among collectors.

Specifications of the 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle

Here are the key specifications of the 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle:

• Country: United States of America
• Year of Issue: 1851
• Denomination: $2.50 (USD)
• Mintmark: O (for New Orleans)
• Mintage: 148,000
• Alloy: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
• Weight: 4.18 grams
• Diameter: 18.00 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Obverse Designer: Christian Gobrecht
• Reverse Designer: Christian Gobrecht

This coin is a beautiful piece of history, showcasing the craftsmanship and design of its time.

Conclusion

The 1851-O Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Made at the New Orleans Mint during a time of growth and change, this quarter eagle reflects the mint’s role in producing important currency. With its relatively high mintage, it remains a popular choice for collectors who appreciate both its beauty and its historical significance. Understanding its features, market data, and varieties can help both new and experienced collectors make informed decisions about adding this coin to their collections.

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