Numismatic Navigator

Last of the Liberties

Written by Brian Zweig | Aug 3, 2020 12:15:00 PM

When the $10 Liberty first debuted in 1795, it was the United States’ highest denomination unit of value. Only limited quantities were produced. Small-denomination copper and silver pieces were in greater demand because the large gold coins were almost never used by the average American.

Not only were mintage figures extremely low, but most early $10 Liberty coins were melted for their gold content. Extreme fluctuations in bullion prices in the late 1700s and early 1800s often made it more profitable to melt the $10 gold piece rather than spend it. In 1804, Thomas Jefferson halted $10 Liberty production.

The $10 Liberty made its return in 1838, albeit with a design overhaul and some changes to its metallic composition. The new $10 coin featured Christian Gobrecht’s iconic Liberty motif, which would remain in place until 1907.

In the realm of U.S. gold coinage, 1907 is known as a noteworthy and magical year. It marked the end of the venerable Liberty motif – which had been used continuously since the 1830s – and the beginning of new designs for all four gold denominations.

This transition resulted in numerous major rarities, including several coins that fetched hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars. Coins like the 1907 Rolled Edge $10 Eagle (typically worth $150,000-$500,000) and the 1907 Ultra High Relief $20 Double Eagle (valued at $1,750,000-$2,500,000) immediately come to mind.

While they may not receive as much attention, the Liberty gold issues of 1907 are both historically significant and much rarer than their price tags would suggest. They are among the very last Liberty design gold coins ever struck before the new Indian Head and Saint-Gaudens versions were introduced. In addition, 1907 gold coins are extremely difficult to acquire in higher Uncirculated grades. This scarcity is reflected in the price of MS65 pieces – yet somehow MS64s trade for extremely modest premiums.

For years, we’ve considered 1907 Liberty gold coins to be overlooked. However, they’re especially underpriced in today’s market. Like many U.S. gold coins, the category of MS64 Liberty gold is cyclical, and prices are currently in a valley. Undeservedly so, the numismatically desirable 1907 issues are caught in a slump too. Despite being rarer and more desirable than “generic” dates, the market is unfairly pricing 1907 pieces in a similar fashion.

This gives savvy buyers the opportunity to own 1907 Liberty gold pieces at a dramatic discount to their 10-year highs.

1907 $10 Liberty Eagle
Current NGC Price Guide: $1,575
10-Year NGC Price Guide High: $3,130, December 2009

Midway through 1907, the old Liberty design was phased out in favor of the new Indian Head motif. As a result, 1907 $10 Liberty Eagles are a better date to buy in all grades and a good bit scarcer in high grades.

The 1907 $10 Liberty is currently trading for a major discount. According to the NGC Price Guide, it’s essentially selling for half its 2009 peak. Not only is this coin a bargain compared to its historical high, but it’s also a much better value than an MS65. With 1907 $10 "Libs" costing $5,000-$6,000 in MS65, the MS64 has plenty of “room to run” in the mid to high teens.

Today's Offer
Due to its status as the final year of issue, many 1907 Liberty Eagles were saved. However, the coins are usually found with numerous abrasions and bag marks that usually limit the grade. Gem pieces are quite scarce. We currently view the MS64 1907 $10 Liberty as an outstanding value with excellent opportunity to appreciate.

Today you can claim the 1907 $10 Liberty in MS64 for just $1,499 per coin.*

Or, if you buy 5 or more coins, just $1,449 each.

Take advantage of this special offer by calling us at 800-831-0007, or by email at infoasi@assetstrategies.com.

*Prices subject to change based on market fluctuation and product availability. Prices reflected are for cash, check, or bank wire. Free shipping, handling, and insurance are available for all quantities ordered. Offer expires Friday, August 7, 2020, or while supplies last.