1873-S $10 (1873-S Eagle) NGC AU50. This Western branch mint 1873-S Eagle has an above average strike and subdued mint luster in its protected areas. The strike is strong on most of the stars, the highest points of Libertys hair, and the lower part of the shield. There is sufficient separation in the lines of Libertys hair on the top of her head and above the ear to support an even higher grade.

The coin, designed by Christian Gobrecht, was modified when, in 1866, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST was added to a ribbon above the eagles head. James Longacre designed the ribbon and motto, and, in the process, created Type 2 of the design. The motto was added because of the growing religious sentiment during the Civil War. Secretary of the Treasury Salmon Chase ordered the Mint Director, James Pollock, to create a motto that would have suitable wording. The Reverend Mark Richards Watkinson of Ridleyville, Pennsylvania was the first to make the appeal to Chase.

The coin had a relatively low mintage of 12,000. They were used in commerce a great deal, and most that have survived are in low grade, VF and lower. In its population report, NGC shows 10 certified at AU50 with 29 better. None are graded higher than AU58.