1902 $2 1/2 Liberty NGC MS66 CAC

The 1902 $2.50 Liberty Head Gold Quarter Eagle is an enduring symbol of America’s golden age of coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during a time of rapid industrial growth and economic confidence, this coin combines exquisite artistry, rich history, and precious metal value. This example has been certified MS66 by NGC, one of the most respected grading services, and is further distinguished by the coveted CAC sticker, signifying that it is of exceptional quality for its grade.

The Liberty Head Quarter Eagle design, created by Christian Gobrecht, debuted in 1840 and remained in production until 1907. Its obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars representing the original states encircle the portrait, with the date of issue placed directly below. The reverse depicts a stately heraldic eagle clutching an olive branch in its right talon and a bundle of arrows in its left, symbolizing the nation’s dedication to peace as well as its readiness to defend itself. A shield covers the eagle’s breast, while UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination 2 1/2 D. encircle the design. Above the eagle appears the national motto IN GOD WE TRUST.

In 1902, the Philadelphia Mint produced 133,540 Quarter Eagles. While this mintage was adequate for the needs of commerce at the time, most coins saw years of circulation, acquiring noticeable wear. Survival in high Mint State grades is scarce, and coins graded MS66 are among the finest known for the date. The CAC sticker on this example confirms that it not only meets the strict requirements of the MS66 grade but exceeds them in eye appeal, strike, and overall preservation.

The surfaces of this coin exhibit vibrant, satiny golden luster with minimal contact marks, even under magnification. Liberty’s portrait is crisply struck, with sharp detail in the hair strands and coronet lettering. The reverse displays fully defined feather detail on the eagle’s wings and bold elements in the shield and talons. Such sharpness is a testament to both the quality of the original strike and the coin’s remarkable state of preservation over more than a century.

With a diameter of 18 millimeters and a weight of 4.18 grams, the 1902 Quarter Eagle contains .12094 troy ounces of pure gold. At the time of its issue, it was a practical denomination for everyday transactions, often used in payroll, travel expenses, or savings. Today, its value lies not only in its gold content but also in its numismatic rarity, particularly in elite condition.

This coin holds strong appeal for both advanced collectors and investors. For the collector, it offers the opportunity to secure one of the finest examples available of a classic Liberty Head Quarter Eagle from the turn of the century. For the investor, it represents a tangible store of value that combines precious metal content with historical significance and rarity.

The 1902 $2.50 Liberty Head Gold Quarter Eagle NGC MS66 CAC stands as a true prize within the Liberty Head series. Its combination of beauty, history, and condition make it an exceptional choice for those seeking to build or enhance a high-quality collection of pre-1933 U.S. gold coins. With its double certification by NGC and CAC, this coin offers the assurance of quality and authenticity that seasoned collectors demand.