1882 $2.50 Liberty Head Quarter Eagle NGC MS62 - mintage of 4,000-!

Here’s an affordable piece to include in your coin collection: an 1882 Liberty Head $2.50 quarter eagle. The Philadelphia Mint was the only facility that produced quarter eagles in 1882, minting only 4,000 specimens that year. Only a small fraction of these gold quarter eagles have survived into the 21^st century. In total, NGC and PCGS have graded 366 pieces. NGC has graded 18 as MS62 with 16 finer. Collectors Universe prices this issue at $3,000.00 in MS62.

The Second Philadelphia Mint, where this popular collectible was struck in 1882. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

The design of the $2.50 Liberty quarter eagle as finally adopted presents a large head of Liberty facing left. She wears a coronet with the word LIBERTY upon it. Pulled back in a bun, her hair is held in place with a string of pearls. Thirteen stars are found around the rim, representing the original thirteen states (as well as the 13 colonies), with the date below.

The reverse device of the eagle is in essence the same one that had been on the quarter eagles since 1808. First designed by John Reich, the 1840-1907 version was revised by Gobrecht. The eagle stands proudly with its wings stretching from rim to rim with the Union shield displayed on its breast. The olive branch of peace is found in its right talon, while three arrows that represent military preparedness are grasped in its left. The legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA encircle the eagle, while the denomination 2 1/2 D. is under the majestic bird.