1839 Coronet Head Gold $10 Eagle: Large Letters - Type of 1838 

The 1839 Coronet Head Gold $10 Eagle with Large Letters is a notable variety within the Coronet Head series of Eagle coins. This particular variety is often referred to as the "Type of 1838" due to its similarity to the design used in the previous year. Here are some key points about this coin:

Design: The Coronet Head Gold $10 Eagle features a design by Christian Gobrecht, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. The obverse depicts Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY," surrounded by stars. 

The date appears below Liberty's portrait. The reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is inscribed above the eagle, and the denomination "TEN D." is below. 

Large Letters Variety: The 1839 Coronet Head Eagle is known for two distinct varieties based on the size of the letters in the legend on the reverse. 

1. The Large Letters variety, as the name suggests, features larger lettering in the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." This variety is attributed to the earlier strikes of 1839, reflecting a carryover from the 1838 design. 

1. Type of 1838: The designation "Type of 1838" refers to the similarity of the design to the preceding year's coinage. In 1838, the Coronet Head Eagle also featured the Large Letters reverse, making the 1839 Large Letters variety essentially a continuation of this design type.

1. Historical Context: The Coronet Head Gold $10 Eagle was introduced in 1838, replacing the earlier Capped Bust design. These coins were minted during a period of expansion in the United States, as the country experienced economic growth and westward expansion.

1. Collector Interest: Both varieties of the 1839 Coronet Head Eagle, Large Letters and Small Letters (which has smaller lettering on the reverse), are sought after by collectors. The Large Letters variety, in particular, is prized for its connection to the earlier design and historical significance.

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