1870 $3 MS(PCGS#7991)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

8053

Grade

MS61

Price

7,800

Lot Description

The Philadelphia Mint produced just 3,500 circulation strikes of this denomination in 1870, survivors of which are rare and seldom offered in any grade. Fewer than 300 are believed extant, most of which are lightly circulated EF and AU coins obtained from the reserves of banks and bullion brokers by numismatic dealers during the early 20th century. With a mere 25 to 30 Mint State coins extant (per Bowers and Winter, 2005), the 1870 is a greater condition rarity than even such other challenging three-dollar gold issues from its era as the 1868 and 1871. That offered here is a bight, vivid BU example with wisps of reddish-orange iridescence to a base of warm olive-gold color. Reflective in the fields with more of a frosty texture to the design elements, both sides also offer bold strike detail. A find for the astute collector specializing in this challenging 19th century gold series.