Lot 3383
1845 $5 Liberty. PCGS graded MS-64. Well struck and shimmering with lustrous semi-reflective surfaces. A very choice example that sits high in the condition census. (Note, smudging on the PCGS holder precludes a clearer photographic image of the reverse on this coin.) Highly lustrous examples like this are extreme rarities and with satiny medium gold surfaces this one displays warm shimmering iridescence. Sharply struck. Surprisingly rare in Mint State despite a seemingly munificent mintage for the date of 417,099 pieces. Beyond doubt, a pleasing example of the date, high Condition Census, a coin of importance to numismatics, exceeded in quality by none other of which we are aware.
The style, variously called the Braided Hair, Coronet, or Liberty Head motif, is by mint engraver Christian Gobrecht and features a small head of Liberty with her hair styled compactly, tied at the back into a bun with a string of beads. She wears a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Thirteen stars surround the border, and the date is below. The Liberty Head motif by underwent several modifications, and a study of the various forms used in the early days can be quite fascinating.
The reverse by Gobrecht shows an eagle with a shield on its breast, perched on an olive branch and holding three arrows. The inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FIVE D. surrounds. The denomination would not be spelled out in its entirety on $5 gold pieces until 1908 when the Indian head was introduced. Pop 10; none finer at PCGS (PCGS # 8223) .
Estimated Value $8,000 - 9,000.
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