Coin collecting is an exciting hobby for many people. They search for rare coins that are not only valuable but also tell a story from the past. One special coin is the 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle, which is graded as MS67 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). This coin is a gem in the world of collecting because it is rare, high-quality, and important in history.
In this article, we will look closely at the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle. We will discuss its design, history, grading, and value. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, this guide will help you understand why this coin is so special.
The History of the Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle
The Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle was part of the U.S. Mint’s Liberty Head series, which was made from 1840 to 1907. This coin had a face value of $2.50 and was one of the smaller gold coins issued in the United States. The design of the coin is iconic, featuring Lady Liberty on one side and a bald eagle on the other.
The 1905 version is particularly special because it was one of the last years this coin was made. In 1908, the design was changed to the Indian Head, making the 1905 Liberty Quarter Eagle one of the last in this famous series.
Key Features of the 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle
- Year of Minting: 1905
- Mint Mark: No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
- Composition: 90% gold, 10% copper
- Diameter: 18 mm
- Weight: 4.18 grams
- Designer: Christian Gobrecht
- Mintage: 316,000
These features make the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle important both historically and artistically.
Why PCGS Grading Matters
PCGS grading is crucial because it helps determine how much a coin is worth. A grade of MS67 means the coin is nearly perfect, with only tiny flaws that can be seen under magnification. Coins graded MS67 are very rare, making them much more valuable than those with lower grades.
When a coin is graded by PCGS, it goes through a careful evaluation by experts. They check the coin’s condition, quality, shine, and overall appearance. An MS67 coin is nearly flawless, with clear details and a bright look.
The Value of the 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle
The value of the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle changes depending on its condition and rarity. Lower-grade coins may sell for a few hundred dollars, while high-grade coins like the MS67 can be worth thousands.
Here are some reasons this coin is particularly valuable:
- High Grade: The MS67 grade is very rare, making this coin more desirable.
- Historical Significance: As one of the last Liberty Head quarter eagles made, this coin is historically important.
- Gold Content: With 90% gold, the coin is valuable for both its collectible appeal and its metal content.
Here’s a look at the estimated values for the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle based on different grades:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS60 | $400 – $600 |
| MS63 | $900 – $1,200 |
| MS65 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| MS67 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
As you can see, the value increases significantly as the grade goes up. A coin graded MS67, like the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle, can easily be worth over $15,000 and even more in some cases.
The Design and Symbolism of the Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle
The design of the Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle is a classic piece of American coinage. Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, designed it and is known for creating some of the most famous coin designs in U.S. history.
Obverse
The front of the coin features Lady Liberty, who wears a coronet that says “LIBERTY.” Her hair is elegantly tied back, and she is surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies. The date “1905” is written at the bottom.
Reverse
The back shows a majestic bald eagle with its wings spread wide. The eagle holds an olive branch, which represents peace, and arrows, which symbolize strength and defense. The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the amount “2 1/2 D.” are around the eagle.
This beautiful design, combined with its historical significance, makes the Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle a favorite among collectors.
Collecting Liberty Gold Quarter Eagles
Collecting Liberty Gold Quarter Eagles can be a fun and rewarding hobby, especially for those who love U.S. history and rare coins. The 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle is a fantastic addition to any collection, especially if you find one in a high grade like MS67.
When collecting coins, consider these important factors:
- Condition: Higher-grade coins are more valuable.
- Rarity: Some years, like 1905, are rarer than others, making those coins more sought after.
- Historical Significance: Coins that mark important events in U.S. history tend to be worth more.
Proper storage of your coins is also vital. They should be kept in a cool, dry place and handled carefully to avoid scratches. Many collectors use special coin holders or capsules to keep their valuable coins safe.
Conclusion
The 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle PCGS MS67 is more than just a gold coin—it’s a piece of American history. With its detailed design, historical importance, and high grade, this coin is a treasure for any collector.
If you are interested in coin collecting, the Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle is an excellent place to start. It’s a coin that not only has intrinsic value because of its gold content but also has immense historical and collectible worth. Owning a high-grade coin like the MS67 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle could be the highlight of your collection.
FAQs
What makes the 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle special?
The 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle is special because it was one of the last coins in the Liberty Head series, which ended in 1907. It’s also highly valued due to its rarity, historical significance, and high PCGS grade of MS67, which indicates it’s in near-perfect condition.
How does the MS67 grade affect the coin’s value?
An MS67 grade signifies that the coin has only minor imperfections visible under magnification, making it extremely rare. Coins with this grade are highly valuable, with the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle in MS67 condition being worth between $15,000 and $25,000.
Who designed the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle?
The 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle was designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. He is known for creating iconic U.S. coin designs, including the Liberty Head featured on this coin.
How much is the 1905 $2.50 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle worth in different grades?
The value of the 1905 Liberty Gold Quarter Eagle depends on its grade. Lower-grade coins like MS60 are worth between $400 and $600, while an MS67 coin can be valued at $15,000 to $25,000 due to its near-perfect condition and rarity.