1796 $10 Early Eagle NGC MS61

1796 $10 Early Eagle – NGC MS61

This 1796 $10 Early Eagle has been certified and graded by NGC as MS61. The NGC encapsulation guarantees the coin’s authenticity and Mint State 61 condition.

A legendary piece of early American coinage, the $10 Draped Bust Gold Eagle—affectionately known as the “Early Eagle”—is one of the foundational denominations created under the Coinage Act of 1792. Alongside the silver dollar, it served as a cornerstone of the nation’s emerging financial system. Its importance was so pronounced that all other gold denominations were defined as fractions or multiples of this coin. Although authorized in 1792, actual production did not begin until 1795 due to the U.S. Mint’s strict security and bonding requirements. These high-value coins were produced only upon request, resulting in very limited annual mintages—typically fewer than 10,000 coins until 1799. This rarity, combined with their rich historical context and elegant design, makes them highly prized among collectors. More than just collectibles, Early Eagles are enduring symbols of a young republic’s ambition and national identity.

Coin Specifications:

• Denomination: $10

• Years Issued: Small Eagle Reverse (1795–1797); Type 2 Heraldic Eagle Reverse (1797–1804)

• Gold Content: 0.48375 troy oz of pure gold

• Composition: 91.67% gold, 8.33% copper (22-karat gold)

• Designer: Robert Scot (obverse and reverse)

• Edge Type: Lettered – “HUNDRED CENTS ONE DOLLAR OR UNIT”

• Diameter: Approximately 33 mm

• Weight: 17.50 grams

• Mint: U.S. Mint

Images shown are of the actual coin you will receive.