$10 Liberty Head Eagle Certified MS61 (Dates Vary

Introduction

The $10 Liberty Head Eagle is a classic United States gold coin produced from 1838 through 1907. Designed by U.S. Mint engraver Christian Gobrecht, the series features a neoclassical portrait of Liberty and remained in production for nearly 70 years. This example is certified MS61, indicating an uncirculated coin with no wear from circulation. Dates and mintmarks vary based on availability.

History

The Liberty Head Eagle debuted in 1838, marking the return of the $10 gold denomination after production had been suspended following 1804. Over its long production run, Liberty Head Eagles were struck at the Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, Carson City, and Denver Mints, reflecting the expansion of the U.S. Mint system and the nation's gold coinage during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The series underwent an important design change in 1866. Earlier examples were struck without the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. Beginning in 1866, the motto was added to a scroll above the eagle on the reverse and remained part of the design through the end of the series in 1907. The series also includes an early 1838–1839 design subtype featuring a slightly different portrait of Liberty.

Design

The obverse features Christian Gobrecht's left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Her hair is gathered at the back, while thirteen stars representing the original states surround the portrait and the date appears below.

The reverse depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings and a shield on its breast. The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, while UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination TEN D. surround the design. Later issues feature IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll above the eagle, while earlier No Motto examples omit the inscription.