Whitman Expo
1870-S $3 Gold SP Values
Details
A major rarity among all U.S. coins, and perhaps one of the most desired of all U.S. gold pieces (like the 1822 $5). Only one example exists in private hands (ex: Bass). PCGS graders determined the coin to be struck as a "special strike," designated by SP, rather than MS. The other example exists in the cornerstone of the U.S. mint building in San Francisco. It may one day become available and likely in excellent (pristine?) condition.
The mintmark for this specific coin was hand-punched and differs from the mint mark punch of other S-mint gold coins of the era.
This coin is made of 90% gold; 10% copper and has a current melt value of $590.58
Obverse: The head of a Native American princess with a crown of feathers atop her head. The words UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN circle the periphery from 7 o'clock to 5 o'clock.
Reverse: "3 DOLLARS" is centered with date below, surrounded by a large wreath tied in a bow at the bottom.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
San Francisco
Mintage:
unique
Coinage Type:
Three Dollar Gold
Coinage Years:
1854-1889
Composition:
90% gold; 10% copper
Mint Mark:
S
Prefix:
Major Rarity
Physical Characteristics
Fineness:
0.9
Weight:
5.015 gr
Weight:
0.1612 oz
Precious Metal Weight:
0.14512 oz
Strike Type:
Business
Diameter:
20.5 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James B. Longacre
Obverse Lettering:
LIBERTY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Obverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
Reverse Lettering:
3, DOLLARS, 1870
Reverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
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