Numismatic

1850 $10 Liberty Gold Eagle Large Date XF

---

In 1850, the Philadelphia Mint produced a run of 291,451 ten-dollar gold pieces. Today, surviving examples like this one, graded in Extra Fine condition, offer a tangible connection to an era before the American Civil War. Because vast numbers of these early gold issues were melted down in subsequent decades, each remaining specimen represents a fortunate survivor of monetary history. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair bound by a band inscribed with the word LIBERTY. Thirteen stars representing the original colonies encircle her profile, with the large 1850 date positioned at the bottom. This classic depiction was created by Christian Gobrecht, whose work graced the nation's gold coinage from 1838 all the way to 1907. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle stands with a shield across its chest, clutching an olive branch and arrows. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arches over the central motif, while the denomination TEN D. is struck below. Minted from 0.4838 troy ounces of actual gold content, this 90 percent pure gold coin showcases the enduring artistry of early American engraving.