The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a notable coin from the Charlotte Mint that often flies under the radar compared to its more famous counterparts. Minted in 1848, the same year as the well-known 1848 CAL, this coin represents a significant piece of American numismatic history. In this guide, we will explore the details of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, its market data, and notable specimens, offering collectors and enthusiasts a comprehensive look at this valuable coin.
Charlotte Mint Gold Coin Production in 1848
In 1848, the Charlotte Mint produced two gold coin denominations:
| Denomination | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle | 16,788 |
| 1848-C Liberty Head Half Eagle | 64,472 |
The $5 Half Eagle was more popular and saw higher demand than the Quarter Eagle. Despite the lower mintage of the Quarter Eagle, it remains one of the more commonly found gold issues from the Charlotte Mint.
Die Varieties and Production
The Charlotte Mint used two of the four obverse dies prepared by the Philadelphia Mint for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle. The reverse die was reused from previous years. The obverse dies can be identified by the position of the second “8” in the date:
| Variety | Date Position | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Variety 1 | Slanted Date | The “8” is closer to the denticles. |
| Variety 2 | Straight Date | The “8” is closer to the bust. |
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
Grading and Population
As of September 12, 2024, a total of 320 grading events have been recorded for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle, with many falling into the About Uncirculated (AU) grade band. Here’s a breakdown of notable grades and populations:
| Grade | NGC Population | PCGS Population | CAC Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS62 | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| MS61 | 12 | Not specified | Not applicable |
| AU58 | Not specified | Not specified | 3 |
Market Trends
Over the past 20 years, the value of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has seen a decrease. The scatter chart shows that the price for Mint State 62 coins has dropped by 34%, while Mint State 61 coins have declined by 32%. Although there was a recovery in the bull market of 2020-22, current prices have not reached historic highs.
Notable Sales and Examples
Here are some noteworthy examples of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle:
| Coin | Grade | Auction House | Sale Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS62 #83224908 | MS62 | Heritage Auctions | January 5, 2017 | $14,100 |
| NGC MS62 #3816847-018 | MS62 | Heritage Auctions | October 2015 | $12,925 |
| PCGS MS61 #84721565 | MS61 | Goldberg Auctioneers | September 2017 | $11,163 |
Coin Specifications
Here are the specifications for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1848 |
| Denomination | $2.50 (USD) |
| Mintmark | C (Charlotte) |
| Mintage | 16,788 |
| Alloy | .900 Gold, .100 Copper |
| Weight | 4.18 g |
| Diameter | 18.00 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| OBV Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| REV Designer | Christian Gobrecht |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Conclusion
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a significant piece of American numismatic history, reflecting the early gold coinage from the Charlotte Mint. Despite its lower mintage compared to the Half Eagle, it remains a noteworthy collectible. The coin’s market data shows a decline in value over the years, but it still holds importance for collectors and enthusiasts. With its distinct die varieties and historical context, the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a valuable addition to any collection.
FAQ’s
What is the significance of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a notable coin minted at the Charlotte Mint, reflecting early American gold coinage. With a mintage of 16,788 coins, it’s a rare piece and an important collectible for numismatists due to its historical value and distinct die varieties.
How can I identify different die varieties of the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle has two die varieties: Variety 1 with a slanted date where the second “8” is closer to the denticles, and Variety 2 with a straight date where the second “8” is closer to the bust. Identifying these can help in determining the coin’s specific rarity and value.
What are the current market trends for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
Currently, the market for the 1848-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle shows a decline in value over the past 20 years. Although prices saw a brief increase during the 2020-22 bull market, they have not yet returned to previous highs. Collectors can find coins in various grades, with higher-quality examples commanding better prices.