Numismatic

1905 Gold $1.00 Lewis & Clark BU

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The 1905 Lewis and Clark gold dollar stands out as a remarkable numismatic creation, holding the distinction of being the only double-headed coin ever produced by the United States. Rather than featuring a traditional allegorical figure or national symbol on one side, this issue honors the leaders of the famous overland expedition by placing one explorer on each face of the coin. Designed by Charles Barber, the obverse presents the profile of Meriwether Lewis, while the reverse displays the profile of William Clark. This dual-portrait approach makes the issue highly unusual and a fascinating study for those interested in the evolution of American coinage design. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a composition of 90 percent gold, this coin contains 0.0483 troy ounces of precious metal. The piece commemorates the historic journey of exploration across the American West. Legible inscriptions on the coin link it to the Portland, Oregon exposition, featuring the words PORTLAND ORE. EXPOSITION alongside UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination of ONE DOLLAR. With a very limited mintage of just 10,025 pieces, this Brilliant Uncirculated survivor offers a direct connection to early twentieth-century commemorative artistry.