The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. With its distinctive design and historical significance, it has captured the attention of collectors and investors alike. The “8 Over 7” variety of this coin is particularly rare and highly sought after, making it one of the most prized pieces in any collection. This article will dive into the details of the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle, its rarity, the significance of the “8 Over 7” feature, and its value in the world of coin collecting.
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is a part of the early series of U.S. gold coins that were first minted in 1795. The design on the coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a turban, which is why it is known as the “Turban Head” variety. This design was used for a limited time, and only a few years of minting featured this specific image.
The coin is a gold $10 piece, often referred to as an “eagle” in coin-collecting terminology. The U.S. Mint struck these coins to provide larger denominations for trade and commerce during the early years of the Republic. At the time, gold was becoming increasingly important as a currency, and these coins played a significant role in the economy.
The “8 Over 7” Variety
The “8 Over 7” variety refers to a unique minting error found on some 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagles. The “8 Over 7” error occurs when the die used to mint the coins had an “8” stamped over a “7,” resulting in a distinctive and visible overstrike. This error is a key factor that makes these coins so valuable and rare.
Only a handful of coins with this particular overstrike are known to exist, and they are highly sought after by collectors. The “8 Over 7” variety makes this coin a standout in any collection, as it represents a historical anomaly in the coin-minting process. Collectors who are lucky enough to own one of these coins have a piece of American history that is both rare and significant.
Features of the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is not only notable for its rarity but also for its design features. The coin’s obverse (front) shows a portrait of Lady Liberty with a turban, while the reverse (back) displays an eagle with outstretched wings.
Obverse (Front):
- The image of Lady Liberty wearing a turban is unique to this series of coins. It reflects the fashion of the time and serves as a representation of the nation’s youthful spirit and ambition.
- The inscription around the image reads “LIBERTY,” with the year of minting (1798) below her neck.
Reverse (Back):
- The reverse side features a majestic eagle with its wings spread wide. The eagle is clutching a ribbon with the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” meaning “Out of many, one,” a phrase that represents the unity of the states.
- The coin also bears the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “10 D.”
Value and Rarity
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is considered a rare coin, especially the “8 Over 7” variety. The rarity of these coins is due to several factors, including the limited number of coins minted and the fact that many of them have been lost or damaged over time. Coins that have survived in excellent condition are especially valuable to collectors.
As of recent auctions, the price of a 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle with the “8 Over 7” variety can range from several hundred thousand dollars to over a million dollars, depending on its condition and provenance. Coins with better grades, meaning those in better physical condition, are valued higher.
8 Stars Left – 4 Stars Right
Another significant aspect of the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is the arrangement of stars on the reverse side of the coin. The stars on the reverse are arranged in a particular pattern, with 8 stars on the left and 4 stars on the right. This arrangement is part of the design of the coin and is one of the features that collectors look for when identifying and evaluating these coins.
The stars represent the number of states in the Union at the time of the coin’s minting. The 8 stars on the left side symbolize the first 8 states, while the 4 stars on the right represent the next 4 states. This detail adds to the historical significance of the coin, as it marks a time when the United States was still growing and expanding.
Table: Key Features of the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle |
| Minting Year | 1798 |
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty with turban |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with outstretched wings |
| Stars Arrangement | 8 Stars Left, 4 Stars Right |
| Unique Feature | “8 Over 7” minting error |
| Metal | 90% Gold, 10% Copper |
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Weight | 16.718 grams |
| Rarity | Extremely rare, especially the “8 Over 7” variety |
| Current Value Range | Several hundred thousand to over a million dollars |
Conclusion
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is not just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Its unique design, combined with the rare “8 Over 7” variety and historical context, makes it one of the most coveted coins in the world of numismatics. For collectors, owning this coin is like possessing a small slice of the nation’s past, and its value continues to grow as time goes on. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone interested in the world of rare coins, the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is undoubtedly a remarkable treasure to admire and study.
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FAQs
What makes the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle special?
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is special because of its unique design, the rare “8 Over 7” variety, and its historical significance. Only a few of these coins were minted, making them highly sought after by collectors.
What is the “8 Over 7” variety?
The “8 Over 7” variety refers to a minting error where the number “8” was stamped over a “7” on the die, creating a unique and collectible coin.
How much is the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle worth?
The value of the coin can range from several hundred thousand dollars to over a million dollars, depending on its condition and rarity.
What is the significance of the stars on the coin?
The stars on the reverse side of the coin represent the number of states in the Union at the time of minting. The coin has 8 stars on the left and 4 stars on the right.
How rare is the 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle?
The 1798 Turban Head Gold $10 Eagle is extremely rare, especially the “8 Over 7” variety. Very few coins in excellent condition exist, making them highly valuable to collectors.