The 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle is one of the most fascinating and valuable coins in American numismatics. Struck in Philadelphia, this $10 gold coin has become a key piece for collectors due to its rarity, design, and historical significance. With a limited mintage of only 5,999 coins, it stands out among early U.S. coins. In this guide, we will explore its key features, market data, and why it’s considered a must-have for collectors.
Overview of the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle
The 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle features an elegant design by Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. The coin features Liberty’s bust on the obverse, facing right, and an eagle with a shield and arrows on the reverse. Despite the relatively low mintage, this coin has become highly sought after due to its historical importance and striking design.
Here’s a breakdown of the key features of the coin:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Designer | Robert Scot (obverse and reverse) |
| Year of Issue | 1800 |
| Denomination | $10 (USD) |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 5,999 |
| Alloy | 91.7% Gold, 8.3% Copper |
| Weight | 17.5 grams |
| Diameter | 33.0 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Design | Bust of Liberty, facing right |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, arrows, and olive branch |
The coin’s specifications and design features help it stand out as a symbol of early American coinage.
Identifying the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle
There are several key characteristics that can help collectors identify an authentic 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle:
| Diagnostic Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wide Date | The date is widely spaced, with the “1” and “8” slightly apart. |
| Die Break | A die break runs through the word “LIBERTY” on the obverse. |
| Large Stars | The stars are large, and the eighth star hangs lower than the others. |
| Die Clash | Die-clashed dentils are visible above the letters “ST” of STATES on the reverse. |
These features help distinguish this particular coin from other similar issues, making it an important diagnostic tool for collectors.
Market and Value of the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle
The market for the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle has been very strong due to its rarity and historical importance. Below is a summary of recent market data, showing the value of different grades of this coin:
| Grade | Notable Sales (Recent) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS65 | King Farouk of Egypt (Sotheby’s, 1954), “The Madison Collection” (2008) | $310,500 |
| MS64 | “The HFW² Collection” (Heritage, 2020) | $105,000 |
| MS63 | “The D. Brent Pogue Family Collection” (Sotheby’s, 2015) | $99,875 |
| MS62 | “The Harry W. Bass Collection” (Heritage, 2023) | $48,000 |
| MS61 | “The Riverboat Collection” (Heritage, 2023) | $50,400 |
As you can see, coins in higher grades (like MS65) can fetch over $300,000, while coins in MS62 or MS61 still command significant values, typically in the $40,000 to $50,000 range.
Coin Specifications
Here’s a more detailed look at the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle’s specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1800 |
| Denomination | $10 |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 5,999 |
| Alloy | 91.7% Gold, 8.3% Copper |
| Weight | 17.5 grams |
| Diameter | 33.0 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Robert Scot |
| Reverse Designer | Robert Scot |
| Quality | Business Strike |
These specifications highlight the coin’s composition and dimensions, which are critical when determining its authenticity and value in the marketplace.
Why the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle is So Special
The 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle is not just a coin but a historical artifact. It was struck during the formative years of the U.S. Mint and was intended to be the primary gold coin of the United States. The scarcity of this coin, combined with its striking design and historical significance, makes it a key piece in any numismatic collection.
Over the years, the 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle has become a popular choice among serious collectors, investors, and numismatists. Its beauty, rarity, and connection to early American history continue to drive demand, ensuring that it remains one of the most desirable coins in the world.
Conclusion
The 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle is a rare and valuable piece of American coinage. With only 5,999 coins minted, it holds significant value for collectors and investors. Whether you’re a new collector or a seasoned numismatist, owning one of these coins is a fantastic way to connect with early U.S. history while also investing in something of lasting value.
This coin’s unique design, historical background, and scarcity make it an essential addition to any collection. Keep an eye on the market, and consider adding a 1800 Capped Bust Right Eagle to your numismatic portfolio.