The early incarnations of these coins were exquisitely crafted, with an iconic design that remains iconic to this day. The obverse of the coin featured a bust of Lady Liberty, an enduring symbol of freedom and independence, while the reverse displayed a majestic eagle, symbolizing the strength and resilience of the young nation. These coins were minted using 22-karat gold, a composition that comprised 91.67% gold, with a total weight of approximately 17.5 grams and a diameter of 27 millimeters.
As the 19th century progressed and the nation expanded westward, a pivotal moment in the history of the $10 Eagle Coins unfolded. The discovery of gold in California prompted a significant increase in the production of these coins. They became an integral part of everyday transactions and played a vital role in the American economy of the time. However, their story took an unexpected turn in 1933 with the issuance of Executive Order 6102 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
This executive order marked a pivotal moment in the history of gold coinage in the United States. It was a response to the economic challenges of the Great Depression and aimed at stabilizing the nation’s finances. The order effectively prohibited the hoarding of gold and mandated the surrender of all gold coins, including the $10 Eagle Coins, to the Federal Reserve. Consequently, the minting of these coins came to a halt, and many of the existing $10 Eagle Coins met a fateful end when they were melted down.
