In 1834, the U.S. $5 gold coin was reduced in size because earlier larger issues had become worth more than their face value in gold. The new smaller coins received a new "Classic Head" design, depicting Liberty on the obverse and an eagle with a shield on the reverse. Struck only from 1834 to 1838, Classic Head $5 gold pieces are in great demand among collectors today. This is the 1834 Plain 4 coin (a much rarer Crosslet 4 variety exists).