What is a 2.5 dollar gold piece?
A 2.5 dollar gold piece is a gold coin that was minted by the United States from 1840 to 1849. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States and was originally intended to be used as a circulating currency. However, the coin was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is made of 90% gold and 10% copper. It weighs 4.18 grams and has a diameter of 18 millimeters. The obverse of the coin features a Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht, while the reverse features an eagle design by William Kneass.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin today and is sought after by collectors. The value of the coin varies depending on its condition and rarity. A well-preserved 2.5 dollar gold piece can be worth several thousand dollars.
Here is a table with additional information about the 2.5 dollar gold piece:
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Mintage | 1,389,838 |
| Composition | 90% gold, 10% copper |
| Weight | 4.18 grams |
| Diameter | 18 millimeters |
| Obverse design | Liberty Head by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse design | Eagle by William Kneass |
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a significant coin in the history of the United States. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States and was originally intended to be used as a circulating currency. However, the coin was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849. Today, the 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin and is sought after by collectors.
2.5 dollar gold piece
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a significant coin in the history of the United States. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States and was originally intended to be used as a circulating currency. However, the coin was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849. Today, the 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin and is sought after by collectors.
- First gold coin
- Minted from 1840 to 1849
- 90% gold, 10% copper
- Designed by Christian Gobrecht and William Kneass
- Liberty Head obverse
- Eagle reverse
- Unpopular with the public
- Withdrawn from circulation in 1849
These key aspects highlight the importance of the 2.5 dollar gold piece in the history of American coinage. The coin was a significant innovation in its time and was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States. It was also the first coin to feature a Liberty Head design on the obverse and an eagle design on the reverse. Despite its initial unpopularity, the 2.5 dollar gold piece is now a valuable coin and is sought after by collectors.
1. First gold coin
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States. This was a significant milestone in the history of American coinage, as it marked the first time that the United States had produced a gold coin for circulation.
- Established a precedent
The 2.5 dollar gold piece established a precedent for the production of gold coins in the United States. It paved the way for the production of other gold coins, such as the $5 gold piece, the $10 gold piece, and the $20 gold piece. - Demonstrated the growing wealth of the United States
The production of the 2.5 dollar gold piece demonstrated the growing wealth of the United States. Gold coins were seen as a sign of wealth and prosperity, and the production of the 2.5 dollar gold piece showed that the United States was becoming a major economic power. - Facilitated trade and commerce
The 2.5 dollar gold piece facilitated trade and commerce. Gold coins were used to purchase goods and services, and the 2.5 dollar gold piece was a convenient and valuable form of currency. - Inspired other countries to produce gold coins
The production of the 2.5 dollar gold piece inspired other countries to produce gold coins. The United States was one of the first countries to produce a gold coin for circulation, and other countries followed suit.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was a significant coin in the history of the United States. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States and was a symbol of the country's growing wealth and prosperity. The 2.5 dollar gold piece also facilitated trade and commerce and inspired other countries to produce gold coins.
2. Minted from 1840 to 1849
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was minted from 1840 to 1849. This period of time is significant because it represents the years during which the coin was produced. The 2.5 dollar gold piece was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States, and it was originally intended to be used as a circulating currency. However, the coin was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849.
The fact that the 2.5 dollar gold piece was minted from 1840 to 1849 is important because it provides a context for the coin. It helps us to understand when the coin was produced and why it was produced. The 2.5 dollar gold piece was a product of its time, and it reflects the economic and political conditions of the United States in the mid-19th century.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin today and is sought after by collectors. The value of the coin varies depending on its condition and rarity. A well-preserved 2.5 dollar gold piece can be worth several thousand dollars. The fact that the coin was minted for such a short period of time makes it even more valuable.
3. 90% gold, 10% copper
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper. This composition gives the coin its characteristic color and durability. Gold is a soft metal, and copper is added to harden it and make it more resistant to wear and tear.
- Color
The addition of copper gives the 2.5 dollar gold piece its characteristic yellow color. Gold is a naturally yellow metal, but the addition of copper intensifies the color and gives the coin a more vibrant appearance. - Durability
Copper is a hard metal, and it helps to strengthen the 2.5 dollar gold piece. Gold is a soft metal, and it is easily scratched and dented. The addition of copper makes the coin more resistant to wear and tear, and it helps to keep the coin looking its best. - Value
The addition of copper to the 2.5 dollar gold piece does not diminish its value. In fact, some collectors believe that the addition of copper makes the coin more valuable. This is because copper is a valuable metal in its own right, and it adds to the overall value of the coin.
The composition of the 2.5 dollar gold piece is an important factor in its value and desirability. The 90% gold, 10% copper composition gives the coin its characteristic color, durability, and value.
4. Designed by Christian Gobrecht and William Kneass
Christian Gobrecht and William Kneass were two of the most important engravers in the history of the United States Mint. Gobrecht was the Chief Engraver of the Mint from 1840 to 1844, and Kneass was the Assistant Engraver from 1824 to 1854. Together, they designed and engraved some of the most iconic coins in American history, including the 2.5 dollar gold piece.
- The Liberty Head
Gobrecht designed the Liberty Head that appears on the obverse of the 2.5 dollar gold piece. This design is one of the most recognizable and iconic in American coinage. It features a bust of Liberty facing right, with her hair flowing over her shoulder. The Liberty Head design was used on a number of other coins, including the $1 gold piece, the $3 gold piece, and the $5 gold piece.
- The Eagle
Kneass designed the eagle that appears on the reverse of the 2.5 dollar gold piece. This design features a heraldic eagle with its wings spread. The eagle is perched on a rock, and it holds an olive branch in its right talon and three arrows in its left talon. The eagle design was used on a number of other coins, including the $10 gold piece and the $20 gold piece.
- The Coin's Overall Design
Gobrecht and Kneass worked together to create the overall design of the 2.5 dollar gold piece. The coin is well-balanced and visually appealing. The Liberty Head and the eagle are both rendered in fine detail, and the coin's overall design is cohesive and harmonious.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a beautiful and iconic coin. It is a testament to the skill and artistry of Christian Gobrecht and William Kneass. The coin is a reminder of the important role that engravers have played in the history of American coinage.
5. Liberty Head obverse
The Liberty Head obverse is one of the most iconic and recognizable designs in American coinage. It was designed by Christian Gobrecht and first appeared on the 2.5 dollar gold piece in 1840. The design features a bust of Liberty facing right, with her hair flowing over her shoulder. The Liberty Head obverse was used on a number of other coins, including the $1 gold piece, the $3 gold piece, and the $5 gold piece.
- Symbol of Liberty
The Liberty Head obverse is a powerful symbol of liberty and freedom. Liberty is one of the core values of the United States, and the Liberty Head obverse represents the American people's commitment to liberty.
- Artistic Achievement
The Liberty Head obverse is a beautiful and well-executed work of art. Gobrecht was a master engraver, and his skill is evident in the Liberty Head obverse. The design is balanced and harmonious, and the Liberty Head is a striking and memorable image.
- Historical Significance
The Liberty Head obverse is a significant piece of American history. It was used on some of the most important coins in American history, including the 2.5 dollar gold piece. The Liberty Head obverse is a reminder of the important role that coins have played in American history.
- Numismatic Value
The Liberty Head obverse is a valuable coin in its own right. Coins with the Liberty Head obverse are popular with collectors, and they can command a high price.
The Liberty Head obverse is an important and iconic design in American coinage. It is a symbol of liberty, freedom, and artistic achievement. The Liberty Head obverse is a reminder of the important role that coins have played in American history.
6. Eagle reverse
The eagle reverse is one of the most iconic and recognizable designs in American coinage. It was designed by William Kneass and first appeared on the 2.5 dollar gold piece in 1840. The design features a heraldic eagle with its wings spread. The eagle is perched on a rock, and it holds an olive branch in its right talon and three arrows in its left talon. The eagle reverse was used on a number of other coins, including the $10 gold piece and the $20 gold piece.
The eagle reverse is a powerful symbol of the United States of America. The eagle is a symbol of strength, courage, and freedom. The olive branch that the eagle holds in its right talon represents peace, and the three arrows that it holds in its left talon represent war. The eagle reverse is a reminder of the United States' commitment to peace and freedom.
The eagle reverse is also a significant piece of American history. It was used on some of the most important coins in American history, including the 2.5 dollar gold piece. The eagle reverse is a reminder of the important role that coins have played in American history.
Today, the eagle reverse is still used on a number of American coins, including the American Silver Eagle and the American Gold Eagle. The eagle reverse is a reminder of the United States' commitment to peace, freedom, and democracy.
7. Unpopular with the public
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was unpopular with the public for a number of reasons. First, the coin was too large and heavy to be convenient for everyday use. Second, the coin's gold content made it too valuable to be used for small purchases. Third, the coin's design was not particularly attractive.
- Size and weight
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was larger and heavier than other coins in circulation at the time. This made it difficult to carry around and use for everyday purchases.
- Gold content
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was made of 90% gold. This made it too valuable to be used for small purchases. People were reluctant to use a coin worth $2.50 to buy a loaf of bread that cost a few cents.
- Design
The design of the 2.5 dollar gold piece was not particularly attractive. The obverse featured a Liberty Head design that was similar to the design on other coins. The reverse featured an eagle design that was also similar to the design on other coins. The overall design of the coin was not particularly distinctive or memorable.
As a result of these factors, the 2.5 dollar gold piece was unpopular with the public. The coin was not widely used for circulation, and it was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849.
8. Withdrawn from circulation in 1849
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was withdrawn from circulation in 1849 due to a number of factors, including its unpopularity with the public, its large size and weight, and its high gold content. The coin was not widely used for circulation, and it was eventually replaced by the $5 gold piece.
- Unpopularity with the public
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was unpopular with the public for a number of reasons. First, the coin was too large and heavy to be convenient for everyday use. Second, the coin's gold content made it too valuable to be used for small purchases. Third, the coin's design was not particularly attractive.
- Size and weight
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was larger and heavier than other coins in circulation at the time. This made it difficult to carry around and use for everyday purchases.
- Gold content
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was made of 90% gold. This made it too valuable to be used for small purchases. People were reluctant to use a coin worth $2.50 to buy a loaf of bread that cost a few cents.
The withdrawal of the 2.5 dollar gold piece from circulation in 1849 marked the end of an era in American coinage. The coin was one of the first gold coins to be produced by the United States, and it was a symbol of the country's growing wealth and prosperity. However, the coin's unpopularity with the public led to its eventual withdrawal from circulation.
FAQs about the 2.5 Dollar Gold Piece
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was a gold coin minted by the United States from 1840 to 1849. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States, but it was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation in 1849.
Question 1: Why was the 2.5 dollar gold piece unpopular with the public?
Answer: The 2.5 dollar gold piece was unpopular with the public for a number of reasons. First, the coin was too large and heavy to be convenient for everyday use. Second, the coin's gold content made it too valuable to be used for small purchases. Third, the coin's design was not particularly attractive.
Question 2: What are the specifications of the 2.5 dollar gold piece?
Answer: The 2.5 dollar gold piece was made of 90% gold and 10% copper. It weighed 4.18 grams and had a diameter of 18 millimeters. The obverse of the coin featured a Liberty Head design by Christian Gobrecht, while the reverse featured an eagle design by William Kneass.
Question 3: How much is a 2.5 dollar gold piece worth today?
Answer: The value of a 2.5 dollar gold piece varies depending on its condition and rarity. A well-preserved 2.5 dollar gold piece can be worth several thousand dollars.
Question 4: Why was the 2.5 dollar gold piece withdrawn from circulation?
Answer: The 2.5 dollar gold piece was withdrawn from circulation in 1849 due to its unpopularity with the public. The coin was not widely used for circulation, and it was eventually replaced by the $5 gold piece.
Question 5: What is the significance of the 2.5 dollar gold piece?
Answer: The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a significant coin in the history of the United States. It was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States, and it was a symbol of the country's growing wealth and prosperity.
Summary: The 2.5 dollar gold piece was an important coin in the history of the United States, but it was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation. Today, the 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin and is sought after by collectors.
Transition to the next article section: The 2.5 dollar gold piece is just one of many interesting and valuable coins that have been produced by the United States Mint. In the next section, we will take a look at some other rare and valuable coins.
Conclusion
The 2.5 dollar gold piece was the first gold coin to be produced by the United States. It was minted from 1840 to 1849, but it was not popular with the public and was eventually withdrawn from circulation. Today, the 2.5 dollar gold piece is a valuable coin and is sought after by collectors.
The 2.5 dollar gold piece is a reminder of the important role that coins have played in American history. It is a symbol of the country's growing wealth and prosperity in the 19th century. The 2.5 dollar gold piece is also a reminder of the importance of preserving our history. Coins are not just pieces of metal; they are also works of art and historical artifacts.
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