Liberty Head Type 1 Gold Dollar 1851 United States Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, Philadelphia Branch (No mint mark)
Pattern: Type 1 Liberty Head Gold Dollar, designed by James B. Longacre
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, Philadelphia Branch (No mint mark)
Material
90% Gold, 10% Copper (Actual Gold Weight 0.04837 troy oz)
Dimensions
Diameter: 13 mm; Weight: 1.672 grams; Thickness: 0.8 mm
Description
The 1851 Gold Dollar is a iconic piece of American numismatic history, representing the smallest denomination of gold coin ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Introduced following the discovery of massive gold deposits in California, it was intended to facilitate larger transactions in a compact, precious metal form. This Type 1 specimen features the classic Liberty design on the obverse (not shown) and a simplified wreath on the reverse, showcasing the delicate engraving work of James Longacre.
Key Features
Small 13mm size; 1851 date; Liberty Head type; no mint mark indicating Philadelphia origin; classic agricultural wreath
Material & Composition
90% Gold, 10% Copper (Actual Gold Weight 0.04837 troy oz)
Finish & Decoration
Struck coinage; reverse features an agricultural wreath encircling the denomination and date with denticulated borders
Hallmarks & Stamps
United States of America inscription; 1 Dollar denomination; 1851 date; reeded edge
Construction Details
Die-struck on a planchet of 90% gold alloy; machine-made during the mid-19th century industrial minting era
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender currency for the United States during the mid-1800s
Handle & Grip Details
None; metallic disc designed for handheld circulation and manual exchange
Craftsmanship Details
Expertly engraved steel dies; high-pressure steam-press striking resulting in sharp denticle definition and centered legend
Authentication Indicators
Correct typeface for the '1' and 'Dollar'; authentic-looking denticles; consistent wear patterns; however, being gold, it requires XRF or weight/dimension verification as many cast fakes exist
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Philadelphia Mint, Pennsylvania; official government facility using steam-powered presses
Era & Period
Pre-Civil War/Antebellum Era; Gold Rush Period (California Gold Rush impact)
Age Estimate
Dated 1851 (173 years old at time of analysis)
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic expansion of the US during the 19th century and the shift toward the gold standard; a tangible artifact of the mid-century wealth boom
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine condition; visible surface wear on high points of the numbers and wreath; significant tarnish or 'toning' consistent with gold alloy exposure; no major scratches or deep gouges visible in image
Value Estimate
$250.00 - $450.00 USD depending on exact grade and luster; prices fluctuate with the spot price of gold and numismatic demand
Care & Maintenance
Never clean or polish; store in a non-PVC flip or archival slab; avoid fingerprints to prevent skin oils from causing uneven toning
Similar Pieces
Type 2 Gold Dollar (1854-1856 with Indian Head); Type 3 Gold Dollar (1856-1889 with large head); contemporary silver 3-cent pieces (Trimes)
Interesting Facts
The gold dollar was born directly from the California Gold Rush of 1848; they were often criticized for being too small and easily lost, leading to the larger Type 2 design in 1854