1855 $1 Indian Head Gold Type 2 MS-64 PCGS

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In 1855, the Philadelphia Mint produced a tiny gold masterpiece. Measuring as the smallest gold denomination ever issued by the United States, this one dollar coin contains just 0.04838 troy ounces of gold with a purity of 0.900. Despite its diminutive size, the coin showcases intricate artistry from designer James B. Longacre, capturing a fascinating transitional moment in American numismatic design. The obverse of this Type 2 coin features a representation of Liberty, while the reverse displays an Indian Head design. The reverse face is clearly inscribed with the denomination and date, reading 1 DOLLAR 1855. Because it was struck at the main Philadelphia facility, it carries no mint mark. This specific coin has survived the decades in remarkable preservation, graded as Mint State 64 (MS-64). Out of a total original mintage of 758,269 pieces, finding an example in such an outstanding state of preservation offers a rare glimpse into the mid nineteenth century coinage of the United States.