By: Mobin
The obverse depicts an Indian princess design by Mint Engraver James Longacre, later used on the Indian Head Cent.
The reverse shows an agricultural wreath surrounding the denomination “3 DOLLARS” and the date 1854.
This rare gold $3 issue was struck at the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia, now a state historic site.
It contained nearly one-third ounce of gold, giving it intrinsic value much higher than the face value.
With a diameter of 20.5mm and weight of 5 grams, it’s thicker but smaller than a quarter.
A mere 1,120 of these coins were made, making it highly coveted today.
Pricing ranges from $30K in VF up to $175K for Uncirculated. Most sell for $50K-$100K if found.