Texan Treasures: 3 Rare Coins in TX

Welcome, fellow Woodlands Coin Collecting Community, to our latest installment of numismatic exploration! Today, we will go on a journey deep into the heart of Texas, where Texan history mingles with rarity to produce some of the most coveted coins in the world. Join us as we shine a spotlight on rare Texan coins, delving into their fascinating stories, significance, and current market values.

​The 1839-C Liberty Head Gold Half Eagle

Our journey begins with a glittering gem from the annals of Texan numismatic history—the 1839-C Liberty Head Gold Half Eagle. Struck at the newly established Charlotte Mint in North Carolina, this coin bears the iconic Liberty Head design on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse. What sets this coin apart is its "C" mintmark, denoting its origin in Charlotte.

Significance: As one of the earliest gold coins minted in the United States, the 1839-C Half Eagle holds immense historical significance. It also carries the legacy of the Republic of Texas, as the Charlotte Mint briefly served as a branch of the Republic's government before Texas joined the Union in 1845.
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Current Market Value: Due to its rarity and historical importance, the 1839-C Liberty Head Gold Half Eagle commands a premium in the numismatic market. Examples in good condition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction.

The 1836 Texas "Dollar"

Next, we turn our attention to a numismatic enigma—the 1836 Texas "Dollar." Minted in Philadelphia during the tumultuous days of the Texas Revolution, this coin features a lone star on the obverse, symbolizing the Lone Star Republic, and a depiction of the Goddess of Liberty on the reverse.

Significance: While commonly referred to as the "Texas Dollar," this coin was never intended as a legal tender dollar. Instead, it served as a pattern or prototype for a proposed series of Texan coinage that never came to fruition. Only a handful of specimens are known to exist, making it a rare and sought-after piece of Texan history.

Current Market Value: The 1836 Texas "Dollar" occupies a special place in the hearts of collectors and historians alike. As such, its market value can vary greatly depending on factors such as condition and provenance. Auction prices for well-preserved examples have been known to reach six figures.

The 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Gold $50

Our final stop takes us to the grand stage of the Panama-Pacific Exposition in San Francisco, where the United States Mint struck a limited number of commemorative gold coins to celebrate the opening of the Panama Canal. Among these was the massive $50 gold piece, featuring a stunning rendition of Minerva on the obverse and an eagle perched atop a column on the reverse.

Significance: While not minted in Texas, the 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Gold $50 holds significance for Texan collectors due to its association with the state's oil boom. Many of these coins found their way into the hands of wealthy oil barons and collectors in Texas during the early 20th century.

Current Market Value: As one of the largest and most impressive coins ever struck by the U.S. Mint, the 1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition Gold $50 commands a premium in the numismatic market. Well-preserved examples can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.

In conclusion, the world of Texan numismatics is rich with history, rarity, and intrigue. From the early days of the Republic to the height of the oil boom, these rare Texan coins offer a glimpse into the past and a chance to own a piece of history. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious novice, these treasures of Texas are sure to captivate the imagination and inspire a deeper appreciation for the art and history of coinage.