Numismatic

1857-S $10 Liberty Gold Eagle AU-53 NGC

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In 1857, the San Francisco Mint struck a limited run of ten-dollar gold coins, producing a mere 26,000 pieces. This low-mintage issue represents an early era of Western coin production, carrying the distinctive 'S' mint mark that identifies its California origin. Crafted from 90 percent pure gold, each coin contains just under half an ounce of precious metal, specifically 0.4838 troy ounces. This particular specimen has survived the decades in remarkable condition, graded as About Uncirculated 53 (AU-53). The obverse features the classic Liberty design dated 1857, while the reverse displays the proud heraldic eagle surrounded by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". Finding early branch-mint gold in such a well-preserved state offers a fascinating glimpse into the metallic currency that circulated during a transformative decade in American history.