$1 Liberty Head Gold Coin (Type 1)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic Liberty Alloy with Copper/Silver)
Purity: 22K (.900 Fineness/90% Gold)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (.900 Fineness/90% Gold)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic Liberty Alloy with Copper/Silver)
Weight
1.672 grams (contains 0.04837 troy oz AGW)
Description
A classic example of the first U.S. gold dollar, known as the Type 1 Liberty Head. This tiny but historically significant coin features James B. Longacre's design of Lady Liberty facing left, adorned with a coronet and surrounded by 13 stars representing the original colonies. Despite its small size, it represents the peak of the California Gold Rush era.
Key Features
Smallest diameter gold coin in US history (13mm); coronet inscribed liberty; 13 stars on obverse; thin planchet.
Color & Finish
Rich warm yellow with orange-hued patina; features a semi-lustrous circulated surface with visible contact marks and micro-scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks (standard for US coinage); identified by Liberty Head obverse and 13 stars.
Dimensions Estimate
13 mm diameter; 1.0 mm thickness (petite/standard US Gold Dollar size)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) finishing for security and anti-counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge profile characteristic of 19th-century US coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Master-die striking process; high relief for its time; precision engraving by James B. Longacre. Hand-carved dies result in slight variations in star placement.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep yellow-orange tone; sharp reeding; proper ratio of profile relief versus field depth. Red flag check: many of these were mounted in jewelry; check for solder traces on the reverse.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (likely Philadelphia, Charlotte, Dahlonega, New Orleans, or San Francisco)
Era & Period
Victorian / American Expansion (1849-1854)
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1849-1854
Cultural Significance
Symbolized the wealth of the expanding American frontier and provided a functional currency for high-value transactions in a time of economic growth.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; estimated VF (Very Fine) or EF (Extremely Fine). Notable surface wear on the hair curls above the forehead and coronet edges. Some grime/toning around the stars.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD (Significant premium over the roughly $100 melt value due to numismatic demand and historical era).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with chemicals; store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival capsule to prevent environmental damage and surface scratches.
Similar Items
Type 2 'Small Indian Head' Gold Dollar (1854-1856) and Type 3 'Large Indian Head' Gold Dollar (1856-1889). Difference is primarily the diameter and the design of the portrait.
Interesting Facts
The gold dollar was only authorized because of the massive influx of gold from the California Gold Rush of 1848, making silver relatively more expensive and creating a need for small denomination gold.