1854-D $3 MS(PCGS#7970)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2225

Grade

XF40

Price

34,160

Lot Description

Here is a noteworthy example to represent this key date three-dollar gold issue, the only one from the Dahlonega Mint. Handsome honey-gold surfaces are enhanced by intermingled blushes of pinkish-apricot patina. Coins of this issue are never fully struck, although this piece exhibits appreciable denticulation in a few areas on both sides. The central high points are a bit soft, due to a combination of strike and light rub, but the major design elements are still very bold for an issue that, when offered at all, tends to be in lower circulated grades. Faint traces of frosty luster persist, the surfaces a bit glossy with faint hairlines, although they are free of sizable marks and have a pleasingly smooth appearance during in-hand viewing.<p>The mintage for this first year of issue was just 1,120 pieces, and only about 300 remain today. The majority exhibit considerable wear, as above, and many are also impaired due to cleaning, surface damage, and other problems. Mint State pieces are virtually unobtainable, thus even advanced collectors assembling date and mint sets are pressed to buy this particular issue in circulated grades. At the PCGS EF-40 level the 1854-D has always been in strong demand. Only the most aggressive bids will secure this prize.