1879 (S) Liberty Head Eagle
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$12,925 MS64+ 11-01-2013 Heritage Auctions
Description
A Gold Eagle from the San Francisco Mint, the 1879 (S) Liberty Head Eagle belongs to the Liberty Head Eagles 1838-1907 series. With a mintage of 224,000, this is a less common issue — ranked 3rd of 4 mint variants by mintage, with 37% of production. The obverse features Liberty facing left wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY and the reverse displays a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. Resumption of specie payments. Gold eagles circulated freely for the first time since 1861. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $2.5K to $8.5K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% gold, 10% copper, weighing 16.7 grams, 26.8 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #8686.
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