The 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is one of the most famous coins in American coin history. Minted in Carson City, Nevada, this coin is special to collectors because it is rare, has historical importance, and is linked to the unique Carson City Mint. In this article, we will look at the history, design, grading, and value of the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle in the PCGS XF45 grade. This will help you understand why this coin is a treasure in the world of coin collecting.
A Brief History of the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle
The 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle was one of the first coins made at the new Carson City Mint. The mint opened because many people were mining gold and silver in the area, especially from the Comstock Lode. Coins made in Carson City are easy to recognize by the “CC” mark, which is found on the back of the coin.
What makes the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle especially rare is that only 5,908 of these coins were made, and even fewer are still around today in good condition. Many of these coins were used a lot, making high-quality examples very rare.
The year 1870 was important because it was the first time gold eagles (which are worth $10) were made at the Carson City mint. This was during a time when the Western United States was growing quickly because of the Gold Rush and the movement westward. Coins like the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle were crucial for trading in this area.
The Liberty Gold Eagle Design
The $10 Liberty Gold Eagle has a classic design created by Christian Gobrecht, who was the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. On the front of the coin, there is a portrait of Lady Liberty facing left. She is wearing a coronet with the word “LIBERTY” on it. Surrounding her head are thirteen stars, which represent the original thirteen colonies. The year the coin was made is below her portrait.
The back of the coin features a strong-looking eagle with a shield on its chest. The eagle is holding an olive branch in one foot, which stands for peace, and arrows in the other foot, showing readiness for war. The eagle is surrounded by the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the value, “TEN D.” Below the eagle, the “CC” mark shows that it is from the rare Carson City mint.
Rarity and Significance of the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle
The rarity of the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is one of the main reasons collectors want it. As mentioned before, only 5,908 coins were made, and many of these coins were used a lot in the busy Western economy. This means many coins were worn down or lost, so only a few are available for collectors today.
Coins from the Carson City Mint are usually more desirable than those from other mints. This is not just because of their limited number, but also because of the excitement of the Old West. Carson City coins are often linked to the rough-and-tumble days of gold mining, saloons, and frontier life. The 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is one of the most important coins from this famous mint.
A Premium Grade for Collectors
In coin collecting, the condition of a coin is very important. The grade of a coin can greatly affect its value. Higher grades are rarer and more sought after. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) is one of the leading grading services, using a scale from 1 to 70 to assess a coin’s condition.
An 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle graded PCGS XF45 (Extremely Fine 45) is a highly desirable piece. An XF45 grade means the coin has light wear on the high points of the design, but it still looks good overall. In this grade, the main design features are sharp, with only slight flattening on Liberty’s hair or the eagle’s feathers.
While higher grades, such as AU (About Uncirculated) or MS (Mint State), can be much more expensive, an XF45 example is still a premium collectible. It offers a balance between condition and affordability, making it attractive for serious collectors who want a high-quality piece without the higher price of a Mint State example.
Value and Market Trends
The value of an 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle in XF45 condition can change based on several factors, like market demand, the coin’s visual appeal, and its history. In recent years, these coins in XF45 condition have sold for prices between $50,000 and $100,000 or even more.
The market for rare coins can be unstable, with prices going up and down based on the economy and collector interest. However, the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle has consistently been a strong performer in the coin market because of its rarity and historical importance.
For both collectors and investors, owning an 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is not just about having a valuable item; it’s also about owning a piece of American history. This coin is linked to the Carson City Mint, the Gold Rush era, and the growth of the American West, making it a fascinating addition to any collection.
Caring for Your 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle
If you are lucky enough to have an 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle, taking care of it is crucial for keeping its condition and value. Here are some tips to help you preserve your coin:
- Handling: Always handle the coin by the edges to avoid getting oils or dirt on it. Wearing cotton gloves is a good idea when dealing with rare coins.
- Storage: Keep your coin in a protective holder, like a PCGS slab. This will protect it from damage and help maintain its condition.
- Environment: Store your coin in a cool, dry place. This will protect it from humidity, which can cause tarnishing or corrosion.
- Cleaning: Never clean your coin. Cleaning can damage its surface and lower its value. If you need to clean it, consult a professional coin expert for advice.
Conclusion
The 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle PCGS XF45 is a rare and historically significant coin that many collectors cherish. With its limited mintage, connection to the Carson City Mint, and beautiful Liberty design, this coin is both a valuable investment and a fascinating piece of American history. For those who appreciate the excitement of the Old West and the craftsmanship of early U.S. coins, the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is truly a collector’s dream.
FAQs
Why is the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle considered so rare?
The 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle is rare because it had a low mintage of only 5,908 coins, and many were heavily circulated or lost, leaving few in collectible condition today.
What makes the Carson City Mint special for collectors?
Coins from the Carson City Mint, like the 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle, are highly valued due to their historical connection to the Old West, the Gold Rush era, and their limited production.
What is the current market value of an 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle in XF45 condition?
The value of this coin in XF45 condition typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on factors like market demand, eye appeal, and provenance.
How should I care for an 1870-CC $10 Liberty Gold Eagle to preserve its value?
Handle the coin by the edges, store it in a protective holder in a cool, dry place, and never clean it, as cleaning can damage the surface and reduce its value.