Gold Dollar (Type 1 Liberty Head) Value
1849–1854 · $1 · 90% gold, 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $200.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $250.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $300.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $600.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $1,800 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $9,000 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1849-C Open Wreath | First Charlotte Mint gold dollar | $300–$3,000 |
| 1849-D | Dahlonega Mint — scarce southern gold | $400–$5,000 |
| 1853-D | Low Dahlonega mintage | $500–$4,000 |
| 1851-O | New Orleans Mint issue | $250–$1,500 |
| 1854 Type 1 | Final year of the small-diameter type | $250–$800 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- James B. Longacre
- Years
- 1849–1854
- Denomination
- $1
- Composition
- 90% gold, 10% copper
- Diameter
- 13 mm
- Weight
- 1.672 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Gold Dollar (Type 1 Liberty Head): History & Background
The Type 1 Gold Dollar was the smallest denomination gold coin ever produced by the United States Mint, measuring just 13mm in diameter. Authorized by the Act of March 3, 1849, following the California Gold Rush which dramatically increased the nation's gold supply, the coin was designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. The obverse features a left-facing Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, surrounded by 13 stars. The tiny size made the coin impractical and easy to lose, leading to an enlarged Type 2 design in 1854. Despite their small size, these coins contain 0.04837 troy ounces of pure gold.
How to Grade a Gold Dollar (Type 1 Liberty Head)
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →