The Liberty Head $1 Gold Coin is a small 19th-century U.S. gold denomination designed by James B. Longacre. Its compact format and classic Liberty portrait give the coin a distinct place among early American gold issues.
The Liberty Head $1 Gold Coin was introduced in 1849 during the California Gold Rush era. Its very small planchet required precise engraving and striking to present James B. Longacre’s Liberty design within the smallest gold denomination produced by the U.S. Mint.
Design Details
The Liberty Head $1 Gold Coin features a classic 19th-century design by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. The obverse shows a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed “LIBERTY,” surrounded by thirteen stars and the year of issue. The reverse displays a simple wreath of laurel and oak encircling the denomination “1 DOLLAR,” symbolizing strength, victory, and unity in early American history.
Investment & Legacy
The Liberty Head $1 Gold Coin combines a compact gold denomination with James B. Longacre’s early U.S. Mint design. Its small size, 19th-century production history, and connection to the California Gold Rush era give it strong historical and numismatic interest.
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