Numismatic

1852 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle XF

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Struck in the decade preceding the American Civil War, this 1852 gold piece represents a classic era of United States coinage. The coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, containing 0.12094 troy ounces of gold within its 90 percent pure alloy. This specific issue has survived in Extra Fine condition, preserving the crisp details of its mid-nineteenth-century artistry. The obverse presents a left-facing portrait of Liberty, her hair bound by a band inscribed with her name. Thirteen stars encircle this central figure, representing the original colonies, with the date 1852 positioned below. This elegant depiction was created by Christian Gobrecht, serving as a signature motif for the gold quarter eagle series during its long production run from 1840 to 1907. On the reverse, a powerful heraldic eagle stands with a protective shield draped across its breast. The bird holds arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing both strength and peace. Surrounding this central design are the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the abbreviated denomination 2 1/2 D., completing a design that circulated widely during a transformative period in American history.