A True Rarity
The 1872 Philadelphia Liberty Head Half Eagle represents one of the most elusive business-strike issues of the post-Civil War era. With an original mintage of only 1,660 coins, it is the lowest-mintage Philadelphia Half Eagle produced for circulation during the Liberty Head series, making it a true rarity among nineteenth-century U.S. gold coins.
Most examples entered commercial channels and saw extensive circulation, leaving relatively few survivors in collectible condition. Most experts agree that only 50–65 coins are believed to exist today across all grades.
Condition & Certification
Our coin is certified NGC AU55. It displays only light wear on the highest points while retaining much of its original mint luster and sharp detail. This grade places it among the finer surviving examples available to collectors, offering exceptional eye appeal without the substantial premium commanded by Mint State specimens.
Design
Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the obverse features Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed “LIBERTY,” surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original states.
The reverse depicts the heraldic eagle with the post-Civil War motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,“ introduced to the Half Eagle series in 1866 and continued through the end of the Liberty Head design.
Collector Significance
The combination of an exceptionally low mintage, strong collector demand, and limited availability has made the 1872 Philadelphia Half Eagle one of the key dates in the Liberty Head series.
For collectors seeking true scarcity rather than simply gold content, this issue stands as an outstanding acquisition and a cornerstone coin for any advanced collection of pre-1933 United States gold.
Availability
We have only one example of this coin available.
As always, first come, first served.
Please call for pricing information.
One of a kind in our inventory.
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