1851 United States Type 1 Gold Dollar Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century US alloy)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper), .900 Fine Gold
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper), .900 Fine Gold
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century US alloy)
Weight
1.672 grams (Total weight), 0.04837 troy oz (Pure gold content)
Description
A classic examples of the smallest denomination of US gold coinage, featuring the Liberty Head design by James B. Longacre. This Type 1 coin is characterized by its small 13mm diameter, which was later changed due to complaints about the coin being easily lost.
Key Features
Smallest U.S. coin ever minted in gold; Type 1 design with condensed '1851' date; standard Philadelphia strike without mint mark
Color & Finish
Rich deep yellow with warm orange-gold tones; semi-reflective luster with visible circulating wear and patina
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date '1851', Denomination '1 DOLLAR', 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' inscription (no visible mint mark, indicating Philadelphia Mint)
Dimensions Estimate
13 mm (Diameter), 0.76 mm (Thickness)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing (standard for US gold coinage)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (coin edge is reeded)
Craftsmanship Details
Struck via coin press; features deep engraving by James Longacre with fine detail in the laurel wreath on the reverse.
Authentication Indicators
Font spacing and punch characteristic match 1851 dies; reeded edge appears authentic; color consistent with 90% gold natural aging
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Era & Period
Pre-Civil War/Antebellum Era; Liberty Head (Type 1) design period (1849-1854)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1851 (approximately 173 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the expansion of the American economy during the Victorian era and the direct impact of the Gold Rush on national currency.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible surface marks and edge wear; estimated grade of Extremely Fine (EF) to About Uncirculated (AU) pending professional grading. Note some potential surface environmental residue.
Value Estimate
Melt value is approximately $110-$120 (based on $2500 spot); Numismatic/Market value ranges from $250 to $450 depending on exact grade.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges; do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or slab.
Similar Items
1854-1856 Type 2 Indian Head Gold Dollar (larger but thinner), 1856-1889 Type 3 Gold Dollar, contemporary $2.50 Liberty Quarter Eagles.
Interesting Facts
The gold dollar was created following the California Gold Rush of 1848, which flooded the market with gold and necessitated new denominations. It was so small that people often kept them in specialized small purses to avoid losing them.