LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2008 February Long Beach Signature Coin #460  / 

2408

1854-D $3 AU58 NGC

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:40,000.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1854-D $3 AU58 NGC
<B>1854-D $3 AU58 NGC.</B></I> Following the authorization of the three dollar gold piece, a trio of Mints, those at Philadelphia, Dahlonega, and New Orleans, struck the denomination in 1854. Of the three, only Philadelphia would continue production of the pieces, with intermittent contributions from San Francisco in later years.<BR> While the main Mint produced the denomination's highest mintage in 1854 and the New Orleans output of 24,000 was more than respectable by three dollar gold standards, demand for the coins was practically nil in Dahlonega, and the Georgia facility struck only 1,120 examples. That number would stand as the lowest mintage for a circulation issue until Philadelphia coined only 1,000 pieces in 1880. While the low-mintage late-date three dollar gold issues are popular with series collectors, the desire of that comparatively small population pales in comparison to the collective demand of branch mint gold enthusiasts. With the exception of the presumably unique 1870-S, which is permanently impounded in the Bass Foundation Collection, the 1854-D is the most sought-after of the three dollar gold issues and is the most expensive across virtually every grade.<BR> The present piece, an impressive near-Mint survivor, showcases lovely yellow-gold surfaces with subtle peach accents. The luster is virtually intact, with subtle interplay between satin and radiance, though a touch of highpoint friction on the well struck devices precludes a finer distinction. Nonetheless, this coin retains a clean appearance compared to most survivors. Indistinctness at the obverse denticles is a Dahlonega hallmark. NGC has graded just eight finer examples, a total that almost assuredly includes resubmissions (1/08).<BR><BR><B>Coin Engraver:</B> James B. Longacre<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Coins & Currency (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
Sign In to Bookmark Lot