Liberty Head Half Eagle

It was during the late 1830’s when Robert M. Patterson, who is the Mint Director during those times, enlisted the help of Engraver Christian Gobrecht to alter the classic Liberty portrait on the half eagle, which was designed by William Kneass.

During the year 1838, the same image of Lady Liberty was used…a year after that, it was also used on the quarter eagle. On the half cent and cent coins of the era, the same basic design was also employed.

The half eagle design which was used in the Liberty Head Half Eagle coin underwent 5 major changes since they were produced back in 1795. Along with that, the Liberty Head Half Eagle also used the Liberty Head Design. This is sometimes known as the Coronet Head due to the coronet worn by Lady Liberty – this has been considered a continuation of the influence of Neoclassicism, which was first seen in 1834.

Looking at the obverse side of the Liberty Head Half Eagle, you will find a portrait of Lady Liberty facing to the left…while having her hair bundled at the back and securing it with a beaded tie. Along with that, however, there are two strands of her hair are found cascading down the side and back of her neck.

To top this off, you can also find the word LIBERTY stretching across the coronet which rests above her forehead.

Additionally, there are 13 six-point stars that encircle within the dentilled rim…and with the date centered at the bottom of the coin. On the reverse side of the Liberty Head Half Eagle, you can find an eagle that has an outstretched wings and with a shield located over its breast. The eagle grips an olive branch on the right claw while his left claw clutches 3 arrows…although the fletching is visible only for 2 of the arrows.