$2 1/2 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle (1840–1907)
The $2 1/2 Liberty Head Gold Quarter Eagle is one of the most enduring and historically significant small-denomination gold coins in U.S. history. First issued in 1840, this coin circulated widely during the 19th century, serving everyday commerce through periods of westward expansion, the California Gold Rush, the Civil War, and America’s rise as an industrial nation.
Heraldic Eagle Adorns the Reverse
The design was created by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. The obverse features Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The reverse depicts a heraldic eagle with shield, olive branch, and arrows—symbols of national unity, peace, and defensive strength. In 1866, the addition of the motto In God We Trust created two distinct collectible types within the series.
Contains Nearly a Quarter-Ounce of Gold
Containing just under one-quarter of a tenth-ounce of gold, the $2 1/2 Liberty Quarter Eagle offers an appealing combination of historic charm, intrinsic gold value, and strong collector demand. Its compact size made it practical for daily transactions, and today it remains an accessible entry point into classic pre-1933 U.S. gold. Professionally certified examples from PCGS or NGC provide added assurance of authenticity, grade accuracy, and long-term liquidity.
Why Collectors and Investors Choose $2 1/2 Liberty Head Gold Coins
- Classic pre-1933 U.S. gold denomination
- Designed by James B. Longacre
- Historic circulation during major U.S. growth eras
- Two major collectible types: No Motto and With Motto
- Strong demand for certified examples
$2 1/2 Liberty Head Gold Quarter Eagle — Specifications
| Denomination | $2.50 (Two and One-Half Dollars) |
|---|---|
| Minting Years | 1840–1907 |
| Designer | James B. Longacre |
| Metal Content | Gold |
| Fineness | .900 gold (90% gold, 10% copper) |
| Actual Gold Weight (AGW) | 0.1209 troy oz |
| Total Weight | 4.18 grams |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, New Orleans, San Francisco, Denver |
| Major Types | No Motto (1840–1866), With Motto (1866–1907) |
| Typical Grades Available | MS-61 to MS-65+ (PCGS / NGC) |
| Legal Tender Status | United States (pre-1933) |
For assistance selecting high-quality $2 1/2 Liberty Head Gold Quarter Eagles or incorporating classic small-denomination gold into a diversified portfolio, professional guidance is recommended.