Liberty Head Gold Dollar (Type 1), 1849-1854
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic U.S. Mint Coinage Alloy)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper alloy); .900 Fine
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper alloy); .900 Fine
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic U.S. Mint Coinage Alloy)
Weight
1.672 grams (approx. 0.04837 troy oz AGW)
Description
A historic U.S. Gold Dollar featuring the iconic Liberty Head design by James B. Longacre. This 'Type 1' specimen is the smallest gold coin ever minted by the U.S., characterized by its petite size and 13-star obverse border circling a coronet-styled Lady Liberty.
Key Features
Coronet head design, 13-star obverse, reeded edge, extremely small diameter (13mm)
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with orange-gold toning; circulated satin finish with moderate surface bloom
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for U.S. coinage); design features 13 stars on obverse and date/denomination on reverse (not shown)
Dimensions Estimate
13 mm diameter; 0.8 mm thickness (Smallest U.S. gold denomination)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief metalwork used for design
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and metal-shaving prevention
Chain & Links
Standard vertical reeding on the coin edge; generally sharp but showing slight wear
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure dies; details in hair and coronet show the high-relief capabilities of early U.S. steam presses
Authentication Indicators
Correct serif count on stars, characteristic 'Longacre' profile, appropriate color for 90% gold, reeding alignment
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, New Orleans, or San Francisco)
Era & Period
Mid-19th Century American (Pre-Civil War/California Gold Rush era)
Age Estimate
Circa 1849-1854 (Type 1 production period)
Cultural Significance
Represents the peak of the Manifest Destiny era and the transformative impact of the 1848 gold discovery on American finance
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF) grade; visible wear on hair high points and coronet, uniform surface scratches, slightly dirty fields, no major gouges
Value Estimate
$200 - $350 (Values vary significantly based on mint mark and precise grade)
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or capsule to preserve numismatic value
Similar Items
Type 2 Gold Dollar (Indian Head, 1854-1856) which is larger and thinner; Type 3 Gold Dollar (Indian Head, 1856-1889)
Interesting Facts
Created following the California Gold Rush to facilitate daily commerce due to the massive influx of new gold in the U.S. economy