Lot 1990
1855. NGC graded MS-62. A fresh and frosty untoned example. In 1854 James B. Longacre restyled the gold dollar to an increased diameter of 15 mm, a move intended to make the gold dollar easier to handle in commerce. This diameter was retained for the remaining years of the denomination.
The obverse motif was changed from a coronet-crested Liberty head to the head of an Indian princess, albeit featuring Liberty in disguise wearing a feather headdress and a band inscribed LIBERTY, facing left, with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding. The reverse shows a wreath of corn, cotton, wheat, and tobacco, similar to that used on the $3 of the same year (and the Flying Eagle cent minted later, beginning in 1856).
From the very outset difficulties in striking ensued. The high relief of the head of Miss Liberty on the obverse caused the situation in which metal flowing into the deep die recess for the obverse prevented the relief areas on the corresponding part of the reverse, particularly the central two digits of the date, from striking up properly. Also there were problems with the striking up of the wreath and certain parts of Miss Liberty’s head (PCGS # 7532) .
Estimated Value $2,500 - 2,600.
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| Realized $2,990 |
