The 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a fascinating piece of American history. Minted in Charlotte, this gold coin was one of the three gold coins produced at the mint in 1849. It’s a favorite among collectors due to its rarity and historical value. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this rare coin, including its value, how many were made, and why it’s so special to collectors.
History of the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is one of three gold coins that were minted in 1849 at the Charlotte Mint. These coins were produced using gold from the Southern states, especially North Carolina. This coin is smaller compared to others, with a face value of $2.50, but it holds great historical importance.
In 1849, three main gold coins were produced:
| Coin Type | Mintage (Number Made) |
|---|---|
| 1849-C Gold Dollar | 11,634 |
| 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle | 10,220 |
| 1849-C Liberty Head Half Eagle | 64,823 |
The 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle had the smallest production, with only 10,220 made that year.
How Rare is the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
Although over 10,000 of these coins were made, only about 175 to 200 are believed to exist today. Some reports show that there might be more than 200 coins, but this is because some coins have been counted multiple times during grading (the process of determining a coin’s condition).
Coins that are in Mint State (uncirculated, or never used in trade) are especially rare, with only nine confirmed Mint State examples. This makes the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle a valuable coin for collectors.
Value of the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle
The value of this coin depends on its condition. Coins in Extra Fine condition (XF) can sell for $5,000 to $6,000. Better-preserved coins in About Uncirculated (AU) condition may sell for $6,500 to $7,500. If the coin is in Mint State (MS), its value can range from $10,000 to $15,000. Some coins with unique qualities have sold for even higher prices in auctions.
Special Examples and Auctions
There are some famous examples of the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle that have appeared in auctions over the years. For instance, one coin graded NGC MS65 sold for a record $103,500 in 2010. Other examples have been sold at various prices depending on their condition.
Here are a few noteworthy examples:
| Grading & Auction | Sold Price |
|---|---|
| NGC MS65 (Stack’s, 2010) | $103,500 |
| NGC MS61 (Heritage Auctions, 2020) | $9,300 |
| NGC MS60 (Heritage Auctions, 2016) | $12,337 |
These sales show just how much collectors are willing to pay for well-preserved and rare examples of the coin.
Conclusion
The 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a rare and valuable piece of American numismatic history. Although small in size, it holds great importance for collectors. With only a few hundred surviving coins, owning one is truly special. The value of this coin continues to rise, especially for examples in excellent condition. If you’re a collector or just interested in U.S. history, this coin is definitely worth learning about.
FAQ’s
What is the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle is a gold coin minted in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1849. It has a face value of $2.50 and is known for its historical significance and rarity among collectors.
How many 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagles are known to exist?
There are believed to be between 175 to 200 surviving 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagles. The actual number may vary due to duplication in grading reports.
What is the value of an 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle?
The value of the 1849-C Liberty Head Quarter Eagle varies by condition. Coins in Extra Fine condition can sell for $5,000 to $6,000, while those in Mint State condition can range from $10,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on their quality.