The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is an important but often overlooked gold coin. Struck at the Charlotte Mint in North Carolina, this coin has a rich history that makes it a fascinating piece for collectors. Although it was produced in the same year as the more famous 1848 CAL coin, the 1848-C deserves its own spotlight. This guide will help you understand its significance, market trends, and what makes it special for collectors.
Charlotte Mint Gold Coin Production in 1848
In 1848, the Charlotte Mint created two gold coin types: the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle and the 1848-C Liberty Head Half Eagle. The half eagle, which is worth $5, was more popular and had a higher mintage of 64,472 coins. In contrast, the quarter eagle had a smaller mintage of 16,788 coins. Despite being less common, the 1848-C is still one of the more frequently seen coins from the Charlotte Mint.
Mintage Table
| Coin Type | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle | 16,788 |
| 1848-C Liberty Head Half Eagle | 64,472 |
Understanding the Coin’s Design
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle features two main design elements. The obverse (front) shows a portrait of Liberty, while the reverse (back) displays an eagle. The coin’s design was created by Christian Gobrecht, who was also responsible for other famous U.S. coins. Notably, there are two varieties of this coin, which can be identified by how the second “8” in the date appears.
- Variety 1: The date is slightly slanted, and the second “8” is closer to the edge of the coin.
- Variety 2: The date is straight, and the second “8” is closer to Liberty’s bust.
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
As of September 12, 2024, there have been 320 grading events for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle. Most of these coins fall into the About Uncirculated category, but many are graded as Extra Fine or below.
Interestingly, only 22 Mint State examples have been certified by major grading services like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) and PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service). This limited number makes higher-grade coins particularly valuable to collectors.
Price Trends Over Time
The value of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has been declining over the past two decades. For instance, Mint State 62 coins have seen a 34% drop in value since 2003. Although there was a brief recovery during the market boom from 2020 to 2022, current prices still do not reach the highs seen in earlier years.
It is important for collectors to keep an eye on the market, as trends can change quickly. For those interested in investing, finding higher-grade coins might be a smart move, given their limited availability.
Notable Coins in the Market
Several notable examples of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle have appeared in auctions over the years. Here are a few to consider:
| Coin Description | Sale Price | Auction House |
|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS62 #83224908 | $14,100 | Heritage Auctions |
| NGC MS62 #3816847-018 | $12,925 | Heritage Auctions |
| PCGS MS61 #84721565 | $11,163 | Goldberg Auctioneers |
These sales reflect the ongoing interest in this coin, especially among serious collectors.
Specifications of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
Understanding the specifications of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is crucial for collectors. Here are the key details:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1848 |
| Denomination | $2.50 (USD) |
| Mintmark | C (Charlotte) |
| Mintage | 16,788 |
| Alloy | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 4.18 grams |
| Diameter | 18.00 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
This information helps collectors determine the authenticity and potential value of the coin.
Conclusion
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a significant piece in the history of American coins. While it may not receive as much attention as some other coins from its time, it has a dedicated collector base. The limited mintage and unique design varieties make it a valuable addition to any collection. As the market evolves, understanding the trends and the specifics of this coin can help collectors make informed decisions. Whether you’re just starting or looking to add to your existing collection, the 1848-C is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a gold coin produced at the Charlotte Mint in North Carolina. It features a portrait of Liberty on the front and an eagle on the back, with a denomination of $2.50.
2. How many 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagles were minted?
A total of 16,788 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagles were minted, making it a relatively limited edition compared to other coins produced during that time.
3. What are the key design features of the 1848-C coin?
The coin has two design varieties based on the position of the second “8” in the date. Variety 1 has a slightly slanted date, while Variety 2 features a straight date. Both sides were designed by Christian Gobrecht.