Goldberg Coins and Collectibles

Sale 7

Coin and Currency Auction

$3 Gold

Lot	Photo	Description	Realized
Lot 810		1854 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-63. A Premium Quality example, rich with golden mint luster and a hint of natural orange tone. Popular first year as well as a single year type. Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,500. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $4,600
Lot 811		1854 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-63. A beautiful example of this, the first year of issue. Coppery toning enhances the devices and the fields retain all of the original luster. The strike is sharp, and the surfaces show only a few ticks from handling. Mintage started with a bang in 1854, a total of 138,618 were coined to introduce the nation to this new denomination (used to purchase 100 stamps in a sheet). After 1854, subsequent mintages dropped never reaching 100,000 coins in any given year. Estimated Value $3,000 - 3,500. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,335
Lot 812		1854 $3 Gold. NGC graded AU-53. Estimated Value $650 - 700. View details	Realized $748
Lot 813		1854 $3 Gold. Although designated "Cleaned" on the holder, this coin has excellent eye-appeal with remarkably clean surfaces. ANACS graded Unc Details - Net Mint State 60. Estimated Value $900 - 1,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,415
Lot 814		EXTREMELY RARE 1854-D PCGS GRADED MINT STATE-60. PCGS graded MS-60. Here is an American classic, the 1854-D Three Dollar Gold piece. Only 1,120 were coined, and most circulated into low grades. It is likely that only a few hundred survive. This date is virtually impossible to locate in full mint state. PCGS has only graded 2 coins as such, this piece and one other in Mint State 62. NGC has similar numbers, with 2 coins graded as Mint State 60, and one graded Mint State 61. It is probable that some of these reported grades may be crossovers or other attempts at a higher grade representing only a couple of coins. Regardless, this is clearly one of the Finest Known specimens of the date, certainly in the top six known. Furthermore, this is the Breen plate coin, used in his wonderful Encyclopedia, with a small identifying mark in the right obverse field. The obverse dentils are weak along the upper portions, diagnostic to this date, and the leaf left of the date is also weak, from die lapping, further confirming that this piece is indeed genuine and not some sort of added mintmark or other alteration. Collectors can bid secure in the knowledge that this coin is original, and have the further assurance of the PCGS blessing of a Mint State 60 grade. The D mintmark is quite large, apparently it was used to produce half eagles. The reverse die shows 2 or more clash marks, with Liberty's head outlined within the reverse wreath. On the obverse, minor clash marks are noted extending up near to Liberty's neck, probably from the wreath on the reverse. The fields possess frosty luster and the devices are well struck on the obverse and reverse. We note that the upper curl on Liberty's head is a bit weak, as well as the high curl over her ear. As to the identifying mark in the right obverse field, it is a fairly heavy dig midway in the field under ER of AMERICA. To the unaided eye, this is minor, but does show clearly with a glass. On the reverse, there are no problems aside from typical handling marks expected on a coin of this era. This is the rarest regular issue $3 date, and the most valuable. Only the proof only 1875 is more costly, aside from the unique 1870-S. We expect spirited bidding when this important rarity, the 1854-D in Mint State 60, crosses the block. As Congress had passed into law this curious denomination in 1853, dies were prepared for the new denomination for coining in 1854. It was believed that these coins could be used to purchase sheets of stamps, with standard postage being 3¢, logic followed that a $3 coin would be useful in circulation. Philadelphia coined 138,618 in 1854, while New Orleans coined 24,000. Dahlonega, on the other hand, only produced 1,120, and never coined another $3 after this small issue. Most, of course, circulated widely and are found in a variety of lower grades. The denomination limped along through 1889, and was formally retired in 1890. Estimated Value $60,000-UP. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 815		1854-O $3 Gold. NGC graded AU-53. Only 24,000 struck for circulation, most of which didn't survive the first ten years after their manufacture. Light coppery toning enhances the devices, and some luster is noted in the fields. Well struck from an early die state, with full details on all the important devices. A coin for the date collector. Estimated Value $2,000 - 3,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,680
Lot 816		1854-O $3 Gold. Sharpness of AU-50. Holed and expertly repaired at 12 o'clock. The overall appearance is quite nice and without the aid of magnification, this looks like a very high grade example. Estimated Value $500 - 750. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 817		1854-O $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. One of challenging dates in this popular series that is seldom found in such original, untouched condition. Hints of luster cling near the lettering and devices, while the strike is typical of the lapped die pairing seen (Breen #6349). A touch weak on the 5 of the date, but it is clear even to the unaided eye. Only 24,000 were struck of this date, most of which didn't survive the Civil War, and few today are found in nice collector grades such as offered here. Seldom found better, if found at all, and usually offered at a much higher price. Housed in the old style PCGS holder, making this another candidate for a possible upgrade. Clean, original surfaces, unlike most three dollar gold pieces seen these days. Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,185
Lot 818		1855 $3 Gold. NGC graded AU-50. Problem free for the grade. Estimated Value $650 - 700. View details	Realized $719
Lot 819		1855 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. A lovely coin for the grade that boasts glowing luster around the periphery and choice coppery toning. Sharply impressed by the dies, and housed in the old style PCGS holder. A coin that will probably be resubmitted for a possible higher grade, as there is little wear on the highest devices, and the luster present would imply a higher grade. Estimated Value $550 - 650. View details	Realized $748
Lot 820		1855-S $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. Here is one of the early "tough" dates of three dollar gold pieces. Only 6,600 were struck, many of which were made after the single pair of dies used had clashed. Not so here, this is an early die state, and because of this, all the devices are sharply defined. The color ranges from the usual greenish-gold to a pure gold color, which is further enhanced by the traces of luster. Minor handling marks, as expected for the grade, but an excellent eye appealing coin that will enhance a high grade date collection. Housed in the old style PCGS holder, and held off the market in a specialized date collection for many years. Estimated Value $1,400 - 1,600. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,875
Lot 821		1856 $3 Gold. AU-55. Frosty luster throughout and well struck. Moderate handling marks from brief circulation. Estimated Value $750 - 850. View details	Unsold
Lot 822		1856 $3 Gold. EF-40. Substantial luster remains in the fields and the coin is very well struck. Perfect for the type collector. Estimated Value $450 - 550. From Superior Galleries sale, June 2-3, 1986, lot 1859. View details	Realized $920
Lot 823		1856-S $3 Gold. AU-50. A rosey golden color with plenty of mint luster to justify this lofty grade. We note a fine scratch before Liberty's nose and some minor rim nicks. Still, a very scarce issue in grades above Very Fine. Estimated Value $1,250 - 1,500. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,725
Lot 824		1856-S $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. Another coin that is housed in the old style small PCGS holder with the blue paper insert. Some luster in the protected areas, and clean surfaces. Another possible upgrade? Bid accordingly. Estimated Value $800 - 900. View details	Realized $2,070
Lot 825		1856-S $3 Gold. EF-40. Medium "S" reverse, with a tiny die break below the second L of DOLLAR (as noted in Breen). Moderate handling marks and well preserved for this issue, which is tough to find this nice. One for the collector. Estimated Value $650 - 750. From Superior Galleries sale, June 2-3, 1986, lot 1860. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,185
Lot 826		1857 $3 Gold. NGC graded AU-55. This is the rare "broken I's" obverse as noted in Breen's Encyclopedia. Moderate handling marks from brief circulation, but with lovely coppery toning on both sides. An important coin for the specialist of the series. Estimated Value $850 - 950. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,035
Lot 827		1857 $3 Gold. EF-45. Nice for the grade, with some luster in the fields and well struck devices. Minor hairlines are noted. Estimated Value $550 - 650. View details	Realized $748
Lot 828		1857-S $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. Another old style PCGS holder, smaller and with the blue paper insert with tattered edges, from back in the days of early computer printers. Surfaces of a higher grade, and well balanced with ample luster to tease the eye. An impressive example of this moderately scarce date. Another upgrade opportunity. Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,400. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,910
Lot 829		1858 $3 Gold. PCGS graded AU-53. As Breen notes, "very rare above AU" making this one of the better ones to survive. Only 2,133 were struck. Clean surfaces which show little wear, and no unusual signs of handling or abuse. One for the date collector. Estimated Value $1,800 - 2,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,105
Lot 830		1858 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. A few minor field ticks, but very original, with well struck devices and some luster in the fields. Estimated Value $950 - 1,150. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,783
Lot 831		1859 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-62. Choice for the grade with greenish-gold toning around the periphery. The fields show moderate hairlines which are very shallow and not all that important, given that fact that virtually every coin we see--including gems--have these to some degree. Well struck and appealing in every way. Estimated Value $2,600 - 2,800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,645
Lot 832		1859 $3 Gold. MS-60. Flashy and bright, this sparkler boasts a clean cheek on Liberty and abudant eye appeal. Well struck and certain to please the date collector. Estimated Value $1,750 - 2,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,013
Lot 833		GEM PROOF 1860 $3 GOLD. PCGS graded Proof 64. The mirror fields possess a gentle gold tone with hints of original copper colors starting to settle in. Naturally, the strike is superb, with every detail full and complete. As to the mintage, it was pretty small, only 119 were coined in Proof. Of those, many were spent or otherwise mishandled. Few escaped in decent condition, PCGS has only graded 7 this high, with just 2 graded higher according to their July 2000 Population Report. We note a small planchet void below the N of UNITED, and a couple of minor tick marks nest in that area. Certainly one of the finest to survive from the meager mintage, and well worth a careful look to determine a proper bid. Proof gold coinage has always been one of the most elite collections undertaken by serious numismatists. Coins are seldom available, and mintage were tiny, so "selection" is a word that is rarely used when purchasing a date for a collection. It may be years before another example is offered of a particular date and denomination, and the grades are as random as the coins. Many of the Proof gold coins we see are from prominent collections, which often trace to other prominent collections, and the same coins go from collector to collector through the decades. Therefore, when a splendid near-gem proof 1860 $3 gold piece appears, we want everyone to wake up and take notice, for this opportunity may not soon be repeated. Estimated Value $14,000 - 16,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $15,525
Lot 834		1860 $3 Gold. AU-55. A bright, flashy original coin that is sharply struck. However, there are some very faint scratches around the reverse periphery. Only 7,155 struck in all, making this one of the challenging dates to locate in high grade. Estimated Value $900 - 1,100. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,323
Lot 835		1860-S $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. In one of the curious events noted by Breen, apparently 2,592 of the 7,000 minted were found to be underweight by officials at the San Francisco Mint. Thus, the underweight coins were melted, and coined into different denominations. Hence, the "net" mintage for 1860-S is only 4,408. Seldom found in grades of Extremely Fine, and almost unheard of much better, this choice, original coin will certainly attract bidding from collectors who've seen and rejected the usual problem coins so often encountered. Nicely centered and struck, this coin is very conservatively graded. Estimated Value $1,100 - 1,300. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $4,600
Lot 836		THE FINEST GRADED GEM 1861 NGC MINT STATE-66. NGC graded MS-66. This coin is currently the finest graded by either PCGS or NGC. A dribble of 5,959 were struck for circulation, most of which didn't survive the Civil War. Both NGC and PCGS have each graded 2 coins as high as MS-65, showing how rare this coin is in gem condition. Only a few dates of three dollar gold pieces were struck in quantity, most are very rare and few survive in desirable condition. As to the surfaces, examination with a strong glass notes a couple of very minor tick marks, one on Liberty's cheek and another hidden one on her chin, the reverse is exceptional, the only mark worthy of note is a slight scrape above the D of DOLLARS. Another identifying feature is light copper toning located below Liberty's bust tip on the rim. Fully struck throughout, and apparently the finest known of this rare and popular Civil War issue. A coin for the connoisseur of the series who demands the finest. Estimated Value $20,000 - 25,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $21,850
Lot 837		1861 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. Another scarce date that has excellent eye appeal and some luster in the fields. There is a small disturbance in the field above the back of Liberty's headdress, perhaps where something on the coin was carelessly removed, but this is scarcely noticeable. We note very little wear on this coin, and hence feel it is conservatively graded. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details	Realized $1,035
Lot 838		1862 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. This appears to be the "indistinct" neckline as noted in Breen, caused by die repolishing. Decidedly original, with nice surfaces for the grade. Estimated Value $650 - 750. View details	Realized $1,035
Lot 839		THE FINEST KNOWN 1863 $3 GOLD PIECE. NGC graded MS-68 Phenominal! Wow, what a coin! If you have ever wondered what a nearly perfect coin looked like, then take a look. PCGS and NGC have only graded 3 coins this high for the entire series. Curiously, the NGC Population Report shows 2 graded this high of this date, which may be someone attempting to get an even higher grade on this same coin, but we can't be sure. The surfaces defy description, they approach perfection in every way. One notes the faint roller lines from the planchet preparation process, but Liberty's full cheek is as pristine as the day it was struck. There is a tiny hidden tick mark on Liberty's eyebrow, while the reverse is virtually perfect. The strike is sharp, with minor weakness noted on the lower portion of the wreath, and curious clash marks (at least two sets) are visible on both the obverse and reverse dies in the fields. Clash marks are caused when the dies strike each other without a planchet between them, leaving part of the image from the dies on the highest point of the opposing die, the fields. Only 5000 were struck in 1863 as the nation focused on the disastrous battles in the south and east. Few of these were saved, today most are found in circulated grades, and precious few are known in Uncirculated condition. If you want the best of the best, the best of the series, then here is the coin for you. Estimated Value $40,000 - 50,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $44,850
Lot 840		1863 $3 Gold. EF-40. Mintage of just 5,000 pieces for circulation, most of which didn't survive the war. Nice surfaces for the grade, and appealing in every way. The collector who put this date set together spent a lot of time finding coins that have original color, some luster and clean surfaces. We also note that the set was well matched and very appealing to a date collector who demands value for their collecting dollar. Estimated Value $650 - 750. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $920
Lot 841		1864 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. A scant 2,630 struck for circulation, this golden and copper toned jewel will dazzle the eye without breaking the bank. Splendid surfaces and strike, and a coin which could possibly be upgraded. This is the rare recut 18 variety, as noted in Breen's Encyclopedia. An opportunity for the date collector. Estimated Value $600 - 700. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,495
Lot 842		1864 $3 Gold. EF-40. A very rare date with only 2,630 made for circulation. This one is graced with greenish-gold color and only minor handling marks in the fields. Worth a premium bid by the collector who needs the date. Estimated Value $500 - 650. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,093
Lot 843		1865 $3 Gold. AU-50. This is the lowest mintage of the series until 1880! Only 1,140 were coined for circulation, few of which survive today. This coin, fresh from an old collection, hasn't been on the market for 14 years. Boldly impressed by the dies, and certain to please the date collector who demands high quality coins. Prooflike in the fields, as are all high grade examples, so few were coined that the proof mirroring never wore off the dies before production ceased. An important date in splendid condition. Estimated Value $2,500 - 3,000. From Superior Galleries sale, June 2-3, 1986, lot 1861. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $4,830
Lot 844		1865 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. Mintages tailed down even further in 1865 as the Civil War wound down, only 1,140 were struck on February 27 of that year, making this one of the truly low-mintage dates of the three dollar series. The surfaces are better than usually seen, although there is a hidden pin scratch in Liberty's hair which continues into the lower right field of the obverse. Excellent luster and boldly struck throughout, making this a perfect coin for the advanced date collector. Estimated Value $1,450 - 1,650. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,680
Lot 845		1866 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. With the Civil War now over, the Philadelphia Mint got back to coining. Mintages climbed from dismal figures up to 4,000 in 1866, still a far cry from the earlier years before the war, but you have to start somewhere. Graded very conservatively, this excellent example will please the connoisseur of three dollar gold. An impressive coin for the grade. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,035
Lot 846		1867 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. As the American economy continued the adjustment back to a peaceful footing, output fell as the country paused to heal its many wounds. Mintage for 1867 clocked in at 2,600 for the three dollar pieces, few of which remain even this nice. Splendid coppery toning and well struck on both sides. Remarkably original in color and preservation. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,495
Lot 847		1868 $3 Gold. MS-64. A choice coin that boasts delicate copper toning on the obverse and a bit on the reverse. Another rare date with a mintage of just 4,850 for circulation, very few of which remain in grades as high as this coin. There is a light scratch on the lower left reverse, but this is scarcely noticeable. Removed from a PCGS holder, where this coin was graded MS-64, but no tag is included. Estimated Value $8,000 - 10,000. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 848		1868 $3 Gold. NGC graded MS-60. With a mintage of just 4,850, all 1868 three dollar pieces are scarce. Here is a low end mint state coin that has some moderate handling marks, and weakness on the upper devices. Some luster in the fields. Estimated Value $1,800 - 2,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,185
Lot 849		1868 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. Only 4,650 struck in 1868, but few are found in better grades. This one has clean surfaces for the grade, with some luster in the protected areas. Boldly struck, and a piece certain to entice the date collector. In the old style PCGS holder, and seldom seen these days as such. Estimated Value $625 - 725. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $978
Lot 850		1869 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. In the year 1869 one of the more curious events in our history took place. Two men, Gould and Fisk attempted to corner the gold market by purchasing all available gold on the market. These two financiers had convinced President Grant to stay out of the markets, which he did for a time. The price of gold skyrocketed for a brief time, until the President released part of the United States gold hoard, more than Gould and Fisk could purchase, and the price collapsed. Hence, the Gould and Fisk corner of the gold market came to an abrupt, and financially painful end. During these wild times, gold did not circulate on the east coast, and higher and higher premiums were paid to obtain gold coin. Once the markets stabilized, gold returned to limited circulation. Here is a pleasing momento of those wild times, a choice 1869 three dollar gold piece. Slightly prooflike in the fields near the devices, boasting greenish-yellow color and outstanding in every way. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $978
Lot 851		1870 $3 Gold. AU-50. Choice for the grade, with mint-fresh luster in the fields and original copper toning on both sides. 3,500 struck, few located today, and worth a premium for the quality. Estimated Value $1,150 - 1,250. View details and enlarged photos	Unsold
Lot 852		1871 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-40. Once again, mintages sputtered in 1871, only 1,300 were coined for circulation. Here is a really nice lightly circulated example. Some luster is noted around the periphery, and the surfaces are clean for the grade. Liberty's cheek is especially nice, and doesn't have the oft-seen bagmarks. Another truly rare date for the specialist. Estimated Value $750 - 850. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,150
Lot 853		1872 $3 Gold. PCGS graded EF-45. Business strikes were coined on February 2, 1872 and the press was shut down after just 2,000 slid down the chute. Perhaps 200 survive in various grades, not many considering how many collectors need an example for their date collections. Well struck and very original, as are all the coins in this carefully selected date run. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,035
Lot 854		1873 $3 Gold. Closed 3. ANACS graded VF-30. The story behind the 1873 closed 3 is fascinating. Dies for each denomination were prepared using the "closed 3", and these were examined by Chief Coiner Archibald Loudon Snowden, and on January 18, 1873 he alleged that the final digit could easily be mistaken for an 8. The Director of the Mint ordered William Barber's engraving department to prepare a new set of date logotypes using an open 3 and new working dies for all denominations. Apparently, a few closed 3 three dollar gold pieces were struck prior to the dies being replaced, most of which are in grades for Fine to Extremely Fine, and showing substantial proof surface in the fields. This is such a coin, the surfaces are of those of a circulated proof. No record remains of the number coined, but it was obviously very few indeed. Perhaps 100 exist in all grades, most of which entered circulation for a time. Nice surfaces for the grade, and lightly cleaned some time in the past (not enough so to keep it out of the ANACS holder). One of the rarest dates in the three dollar gold series. Estimated Value $2,300 - 2,500. Probably from Superior Stamp & Coin sale, September 22, 1998, lot 2017. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,278
Lot 855		1874 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-62. Flashy luster and well struck. A common date, and in a nice collector grade. Estimated Value $1,800 - 2,100. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $2,070
Lot 856		1874 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-62. Frosty luster and with a typical strike. A hoard coin which is often acquired by type collectors for this curious denomination. Nice surfaces for the grade assigned. Estimated Value $1,800 - 2,100. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $1,869
Lot 857		1874 $3 Gold. ANACS graded AU-55. Choice and original for the grade, with some fanciful copper toning around the periphery. A glass will note the usual scattering of tick marks, none deep or offensive. Boldly impressed. Estimated Value $700 - 800. View details	Realized $776
Lot 858		1877 $3 Gold. PCGS graded VF-35. Here is a coin that could easily be in a higher grade holder, the surfaces retain some luster in the lettering and devices, and there is very little wear to account for the grade. Furthermore, this is a rare date, with a mintage of just 1,468 for circulation. After nearly 15 years of PCGS grading, they have only seen 35 examples of this date according to their Population Report (June 2000), the lowest of any three dollar gold coin struck for circulation, including the rare 1873 closed 3. Undervalued currently, but as more and more collectors realize how rare this date is, prices will rise accordingly. Estimated Value $1,000 - 1,200. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $3,565
Lot 859		1878 $3 Gold. PCGS graded MS-65. Here is a lovely gem example of this common date. Well struck on the obverse, but there is some weakness on the lower wreath. Flashy yellow luster and generally untoned. The only available date in gem, with 118 graded by PCGS, but it gets a lot more expensive any better. Estimated Value $8,000 - 9,000. View details and enlarged photos	Realized $9,775

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