Classic Head Quarter Eagle Values
How Much Classic Head Quarter Eagle
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1834 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $704 | $790 | $865 | $1,065 | $1,300 | $3,219 | $9,990 | $14,860 | $49,650 | $100,000 |
| 1835 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $704 | $790 | $865 | $1,093 | $1,355 | $3,790 | $11,475 | $26,100 | $57,250 | -- |
| 1836 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $704 | $790 | $865 | $1,065 | $1,300 | $2,995 | $9,719 | $14,860 | $49,650 | $82,500 |
| 1836 | (None) Phil | Script 8 | -- | $704 | $790 | $865 | $1,065 | $1,300 | $3,430 | $9,990 | $14,860 | $49,650 | $91,250 |
| 1837 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $763 | $856 | $960 | $1,275 | $2,005 | $5,200 | $10,870 | $33,270 | $77,750 | -- |
| 1838 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $704 | $790 | $870 | $1,107 | $1,820 | $4,263 | $12,175 | $16,800 | $52,150 | $92,750 |
| 1838 | C | -- | -- | -- | $5,090 | $6,500 | $10,750 | $14,050 | $37,350 | $75,500 | $129,500 | -- | -- |
| 1839 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $950 | $1,015 | $1,225 | $2,315 | $3,845 | $14,100 | $56,700 | -- | -- | -- |
| 1839 | C | -- | -- | -- | $3,760 | $5,170 | $7,630 | $9,400 | $30,850 | $89,100 | -- | -- | -- |
| 1839 | D | -- | -- | $4,010 | $4,730 | $5,905 | $9,545 | $11,950 | $39,000 | $88,500 | $174,800 | -- | -- |
| 1839 | O | -- | -- | $1,625 | $1,750 | $2,310 | $4,190 | $5,725 | $16,600 | $54,650 | $88,000 | $163,250 | -- |
Classic Head Quarter Eagle
The Classic Head Quarter Eagle, minted from 1834 to 1839, was part of an overhaul of U.S. gold coinage. Designed by William Kneass, this $2.50 gold piece introduced a more modernized portrait of Liberty while aligning with new gold weight standards. Its relatively short mintage period, historical significance, and connection to economic reforms make it a highly desirable coin among collectors.
History and Design
The Classic Head design was introduced in 1834 following the Coinage Act of 1834, which adjusted U.S. gold coins’ weight and gold content to discourage melting and exportation. Before this change, many gold coins were being hoarded or sent overseas due to their intrinsic value exceeding their face value.
The obverse features Liberty wearing a headband inscribed with “LIBERTY,” surrounded by 13 stars, while the reverse depicts a simplified eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch. Notably, this design omits the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” a change intended to differentiate it from previous issues.
Why Collectors Value the Classic Head Quarter Eagle
Due to its short production period and historical role in U.S. monetary policy, the Classic Head Quarter Eagle holds strong collectable appeal. Many of these coins saw extensive circulation, making high-grade examples particularly scarce. Additionally, these are a part of the pre-1933 gold coins that were confiscated by the U.S. government and melted to bolster the Treasury’s gold reserves.
What Collectors Should Look For
Where to Find Them: These coins are typically available through major numismatic auctions and reputable coin dealers.
Key Features: Collectors seek coins with full details in Liberty’s hair and minimal wear on the eagle’s wings.
Storage and Protection: Since gold is soft, Classic Head Quarter Eagles should be kept in certified holders to prevent scratches and surface marks.
Key Dates and Rarities
Key dates collectors look for in this series are:
- 1834 Classic Head Quarter Eagle – First year of issue and a major historical transition.
- 1836 Classic Head Quarter Eagle – One of the more challenging dates to find in high grades.
- 1839-D Quarter Eagle – Struck at the Dahlonega Mint, this is the only Classic Head Quarter Eagle produced outside Philadelphia, making it a key rarity.
- Notable Errors: Double die obverses and misaligned dies can add extra value to specific specimens.
Investment Potential
The Classic Head Quarter Eagle is a strong investment due to its gold content, historical importance, and limited surviving population. High-grade examples, especially those from the Dahlonega Mint (D-mintmark), tend to command premium prices. Pre-1933 gold is seeing its lowest premiums in decades, making coins like the Classic Head Quarter Eagle priced for significant appreciation. Additionally, graded or certified versions have the potential to greatly increase in value, as surviving populations in good condition are getting lower every day.
Why Buy Classic Head Quarter Eagles?
The Classic Head Quarter Eagle is an important piece of early U.S. gold coinage, marking a critical shift in American monetary policy. Its short-lived production, historical significance, and collectability ensure its lasting appeal among numismatists and investors alike.
