1882 Liberty Head $10 Gold Eagle

1882 Liberty Head $10 gold eagles were struck in decently large numbers, but as many were melted or lost to attrition in circulation and thus remain somewhat difficult in choice grades. These beautiful U.S. gold coins were designed by Christian Gobrecht, who served as the third chief engraver of the United States Mint. He oversaw the production of several new coin designs during his tenure, most notably the Seated Liberty coins. He designed these popular coins in the 1830s, and they stayed in production until as late as the 1890s.

1882 $10 gold eagle coins contain 0.4806 ounces of gold, but they are worth much as numismatic treasures than simply bullion coins. Here’s a look at the values and mintages of the 1882 Liberty Head gold eagle $10 coin:

• 1882, 2,324,480 minted; $1,474

• 1882-CC, 6,764; $2,692

• 1882-O, 10,820 $1,539

• 1882-S, 132,000; $1,474

• 1882 proof; $63,000

*Values are for coins grading Very Fine 20 unless otherwise stated.

The mintage figures listed above are much higher than the population surviving today, and therefore 1882 gold eagles are scarce. This is a typical scenario for pre-1933 U.S. gold coinage, which was melted in large numbers, leaving many dates particularly challenging to locate. While it’s recommended to buy slabbed pre-1933 U.S. gold coins instead of “raw” coins, individuals who want uncertified 1882 Liberty Head gold eagle coins should only buy them from trusted coin dealers.