The 1869 Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coins were struck in the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints. These coins are important collectible coins that collectors value for their history, art, and gold content. Though thousands of both issues were made, the reality is that perhaps only hundreds still exist today. As is the case with most pre-1933 U.S. gold coins, the coins were melted for their precious metal content.
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the 1869 Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coin weighs 4.18 grams and has a diameter of 18 millimeters, meaning they are roughly the diameter of a standard U.S. dime. These gold quarter eagle coins contain a total of 0.1202 ounces of gold. Nowadays, collectors are constantly trying to get their hands on these coins because they would like to make complete collections.
For a coin that has been around for over 150 years, condition is extremely important when trying to determine the coin’s value. Coin collectors will seek out coins that are in near-perfect condition and look fresh from the mint. Coins of a lesser condition, however, may still be valuable based on certain factors. Finding well-preserved coins of this age can prove to be difficult.
When examining a coin, you are in effect trying to gauge the coin’s potential grade. Coin grades are assigned by professional coin grading companies; however, you can get a great idea of what a graded Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coin may look like by following the guidelines below.
Uncirculated: This is the type of coin most often sought by serious coin collectors. Uncirculated coins have never been used in everyday circulation, and look as if they are brand new. These coins do not have any of the typical damage or imperfections associated with circulation. These coins may even retain their shine, and will look as if they were just struck today.
Extremely Fine: Just a step below uncirculated, coins in extremely fine condition may also be coveted by collectors. These coins may have some very light damage, such as minor surface scratches, and will still look to be brand new to the naked eye. It is only during a close inspection that any minor imperfections may be noticed.
Fine: Coins that are said to be in fine condition have often been in circulation for some time. While the coin’s images and details remain fully intact and discernible, the coin’s surfaces may have scratches or discoloration.
Good: A majority of Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coins would be assigned a grade of good. These coins have been used extensively, often times for many years, and they may show their age. Various forms of surface damage, scratches, discoloration and other imperfections may be present.
When trying to assess your coin’s value, the first step is determining what type of coin you have. Mint year 1869 saw two types of Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coins produced. While the coin type is very important, the coin’s condition is also of extreme importance when it comes to value. Coins in better condition can sell for vastly larger sums than similar coins that are in a lower condition. Use the chart below to get an idea of what you might expect to pay today for a 1869 Liberty Head $2.50 Gold Coins based on type and grade.
Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin
DATE | GOOD | FINE | EXTREMELY FINE | UNCIRCULATED |
---|---|---|---|---|
1869 Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin | N/A | N/A | $425 | $700 |
1869 Liberty Head $2.5 Gold Coin (S) | N/A | N/A | $475 | $1,000 | Source: Red Book |