Lot 3923
1861-D. NGC graded AU-58. One of the most coveted of all gold dollars because these were all struck by the Confederacy. Two dies were shipped to Dahlonega which arrived on January 7, 1861. No coins were struck by the Union. After the Rebels seized the mint, an unknown quantity of gold dollars were coined using an old obverse die from 1860, and one of the two new reverses. most of which have been lapped so the wreath is always weak and lacking fine detail. Furthermore, the U of UNITED is always weak, and the rim over ICA is flat. As Walter Breen says, grade by surface, not wear or weak strike.
A few qualify as mint state according to the services, but this is still one of the better ones known. The strike is sharp, with the letters UNITED a bit crushed, the reverse die has been lapped and still shows clash marks. Note that the date is full. No distracting handling marks on either side.
We can not imagine a more historic coin from the period, and certain to bring a well deserved price.
Estimated Value $25,000-UP.
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| Realized $18,400 |
