1873 Indian Princess $1 Gold Piece, Open 3, NGC & CAC Certified MS64

The discovery of gold in 1848 at Sutter’s Mill in California persuaded Congress to expand its use in coin production. In March of 1849, legislation authorized the mintage of two new denominations of gold coins, the one dollar and twenty-dollar gold pieces, which became the smallest and largest regular production gold coins ever made in terms of both value and size. At three-quarters the diameter of a dime, the new gold dollar was also the smallest U.S. coin of any denomination. Despite its diminutive size, the tiny gold dollar had substantial purchasing power and amounted to a generous day’s wages in 1849.

The obverse of the first gold dollar (Type 1) featured a left-facing Liberty wearing a coronet, or small crown, encircled by 13 stars representing the original states. The reverse bears the denomination within a simple wreath. Production of the gold dollar continued for 40 years in various forms at five mints: Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, Charlotte (North Carolina), and Dahlonega (Georgia). The diameter was increased in 1854 and the obverse design was changed to an Indian Princess motif (Type 2). The reverse was also modified, though still featured a wreath encircling the denomination. Due to repeated issues with strike quality, the Indian Princess design was further modified slightly in 1856 (Type 3), with the resultant version employed through 1889.

Offered here is a very nice Reconstruction-era mint-state example of the Type 3 Indian Princess $1 Gold Piece. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a plush-lined box with a certificate of authenticity.

The condition of a coin is officially graded on a 70-point scale according to standards set forth by the American Numismatic Association. Grades under 60 represent circulated grades, while grades from 60 through 70 represent uncirculated, or “mint-state” grades. Very few, if any, older coins are known to exist in perfect MS70 grade. The coin offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more leading certification services so you can be confident in its authenticity and stated condition.