Preliminary identification

1895 Liberty Head $5 Half Eagle Gold Coin

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

An authentic United States 1895 Liberty Head $5 gold coin, also known as a Half Eagle, struck in 90% pure gold. Designed by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht, this classic American coinage features the Coronet portrait of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse.

Story

In 1895, gold was the lifeblood of American commerce amidst economic turmoil. Struck from 0.24187 troy ounces of pure gold, this coin survived the massive government gold recalls of 1933.

Maker / Origin

Christian Gobrecht served as the third Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1840 until his death in 1844. His iconic neoclassical Liberty Head design was so enduring that it remained in production for nearly seven decades, from 1839 until 1908.

Condition & Value

The coin appears to retain strong luster with well-defined hair curls and feather details, consistent with About Uncirculated to low Mint State condition. No major rim dings or severe scratches are visible through the capsule. High-grade uncirculated examples command notable premiums over base gold melt value.

Full Research

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.