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Inventory:
3 In Stock
- Product ID: 11503
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 07/27/24 02:04:02 | ||
Gold
 22.39
|
$2,386.38 | $2,399.69 |
The $5 Gold Liberty 1897 Extra Fine (XF) coin is a distinguished example of American coinage from the late 19th century, embodying the nation's rich history, artistic design, and numismatic value. As part of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, minted from 1839 to 1908, the 1897 issue stands out as a collectible item, cherished for its intricate design and historical significance.
The Liberty Head Half Eagle series was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. Gobrecht's design for the obverse features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, adorned with a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." Surrounding Liberty are thirteen stars, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies, and the date "1897" is positioned below her image. This classic design captures the artistic elegance and patriotic themes prevalent in American coinage of the era.
The reverse of the $5 Gold Liberty coin showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons. This powerful imagery represents the nation's desire for peace and its preparedness for defense. Above the eagle's head is a ribbon with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," a phrase adopted to express national faith and unity following the Civil War. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "FIVE D." encircle the eagle, completing the design with a sense of balance and symmetry.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1897 coin was minted at three facilities: Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. Each mint contributed to the production of these coins to meet the demands of the growing American economy. Coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint do not bear a mintmark, whereas those from New Orleans are marked with an "O," and those from San Francisco carry an "S" mintmark. These mintmarks provide important clues for collectors and historians, helping to trace the coin's origin and history.
The mintage of the 1897 $5 Gold Liberty coin varied across the different mints. The Philadelphia Mint produced 1,437,000 coins, the New Orleans Mint struck 30,000 coins, and the San Francisco Mint minted 140,000 coins. Although the overall mintage numbers suggest a high production, many of these coins have not survived in collectible condition. Consequently, finding well-preserved examples, especially in Extra Fine condition, can be a rewarding pursuit for collectors.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the $5 Gold Liberty 1897 coin retains much of its original detail and luster despite showing slight wear from circulation. The highest points of the design, such as Liberty's hair and the eagle's feathers, exhibit minor signs of wear but remain well-defined. The coin's fields, or flat surfaces, maintain a significant amount of their original mint luster, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. This condition level offers a pleasing balance between historical authenticity and visual beauty, making it a desirable addition to any numismatic collection.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1897 coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to a transformative period in American history. This coin circulated during a time of significant industrial growth, westward expansion, and social change, playing a vital role in everyday commerce. Its design reflects the values and aspirations of the nation, celebrating liberty, strength, and unity through its imagery and inscriptions.
The historical significance of the $5 Gold Liberty 1897 coin extends beyond its economic function. It represents an era when gold coins were a standard medium of exchange, offering a glimpse into the financial practices and cultural values of the time. Collectors and historians appreciate the coin's ability to tell a story, connecting present-day enthusiasts with the past through its enduring legacy.
As a part of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, the 1897 issue exemplifies the craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized American coinage during the late 19th century. The coin's design by Christian Gobrecht continues to be celebrated for its artistic merit and symbolic resonance, making it a staple in the collections of numismatists and history buffs alike.
The $5 Gold Liberty 1897 Extra Fine coin remains a remarkable artifact of American numismatic history. With its timeless design, production across multiple mints, and relatively limited surviving mintage, this coin holds significant value for collectors and historians. Its well-preserved condition and historical context make it a cherished piece, offering both aesthetic appeal and a deep connection to America's past. As a representation of the Liberty Head Half Eagle series, the 1897 issue continues to captivate and inspire those who appreciate the rich heritage of U.S. coinage.