1851-O Liberty Head $1 Gold Piece PCGS & CAC Certified AU58

The discovery of gold in 1848 at Sutter’s Mill in California persuaded Congress to expand its use in coin production. In March of 1849, legislation authorized the mintage of two new denominations of gold coins, the one dollar and twenty-dollar gold pieces, which became the smallest and largest regular production gold coins ever made in terms of both value and size. At three-quarters the diameter of a dime, the gold dollar is also the smallest U.S. coin of any denomination. Despite its diminutive size, the tiny gold dollar had substantial purchasing power and amounted to a generous day’s wages in 1849.

The obverse of the first gold dollar featured a left-facing Liberty wearing a coronet, or small crown, encircled by 13 stars representing the original states. The reverse bears the denomination within a simple wreath. Production of the gold dollar continued for 40 years in various forms at five mints: Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, Charlotte (North Carolina), and Dahlonega (Georgia).

Offered here is a nice example of a very lightly circulated Liberty Head $1 Gold Piece from the New Orleans mint in 1851. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a plush-lined box with a certificate of authenticity.

The condition of a coin is officially graded on a 70-point scale according to standards set forth by the American Numismatic Association. Grades under 60 represent circulated grades, while grades from 60 through 70 represent uncirculated, or “mint-state” grades. Very few, if any, older coins are known to exist in perfect MS70 grade. The coin offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more leading certification services so you can be confident in its authenticity and stated condition.