This smallest denomination United States gold coin was first minted in 1849. This design featured a Liberty head on the obverse while the reverse carried the denomination within a wreath. The concept of a gold dollar coin dates to 1836 when patterns were issued.
Engraver James Barton Longacre prepared the designs and made minor alterations throughout the year. This example is from the first design issued, with a small Liberty Head and an Open Wreath. Larger heads and closed wreaths are found on later issues of 1849.

Purchased 12/12/1974 from Stacks.

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