1851 Liberty Head Gold Dollar, Type 1
Coin (Numismatic Gold Dollar) · Yellow Gold (Classic mid-19th century American alloy)
Purity: 90% Gold (21.6K), 10% Copper alloy; Net gold content: 0.04837 troy oz
Type
Coin (Numismatic Gold Dollar)
Purity
90% Gold (21.6K), 10% Copper alloy; Net gold content: 0.04837 troy oz
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic mid-19th century American alloy)
Weight
1.672 grams (Standard mint weight)
Description
A historic Type 1 Liberty Head gold dollar from 1851. This tiny coin was a product of the California Gold Rush, designed by James B. Longacre. The reverse side shown features an open wreath surrounding the denomination and date, encircled by the country’s name. Its small size represents the first successful attempt at a $1 gold denomination by the U.S. Mint.
Key Features
Designated Type 1 due to its 13mm size; 1851 was a major production year; features the distinct Longacre wreath design.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich yellow gold with a somewhat porous surface texture; visible circulated patina and secondary toning in the recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for U.S. currency); Reverse displays 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', '1 DOLLAR', and date '1851'.
Dimensions Estimate
13 mm diameter (Smallest denomination of U.S. gold coinage)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a relief engraving of a floral wreath (reverse) and Liberty head (obverse-not pictured).
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge; standard vertical serrations used to prevent 'shaving' or 'clipping' of the gold.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid struck coin planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by steam-powered press; features distinctive high-relief lettering and intricate wreath details characteristic of Longacre's engraving style.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style and serif placement for 1851; reeded edges appear consistent with period minting; copper toning spots consistent with 90% gold alloy.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (likely Philadelphia, as no mint mark is visible below the wreath).
Era & Period
Mid-19th Century American Gold Rush era (Type 1 Liberty Head design)
Age Estimate
173 years (Stated year 1851).
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic expansion of the United States and the tangible result of the mid-19th-century gold fever that shaped the American West.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) range. Visible surface pitting, edge wear, and flattening of the high points on the wreath. The fields show significant circulation marks and a granular texture possibly indicating past cleaning or environmental exposure.
Value Estimate
Market value approx. $200 - $350 USD depending on final grade verification; carries a significant numismatic premium over its ~$115 melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is destroyed by abrasive cleaning. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip.
Similar Items
1849-1854 Liberty Head (Type 1), 1854-1856 Indian Head (Type 2 - Larger/Thinner), 1856-1889 Indian Head (Type 3).
Interesting Facts
The gold dollar was created because of the massive influx of gold from the California Gold Rush of 1848, which made gold more abundant than silver for several years.