Gold Dollar (Type 2 Indian Princess) Value
1854–1856 · $1 · 90% gold, 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $400.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $600.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,200 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $5,000 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $15,000 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $75,000 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1855-C | Charlotte Mint, only 9,803 struck — major rarity | $5,000–$40,000 |
| 1855-D | Dahlonega Mint, 1,811 struck — one of rarest gold dollars | $8,000–$60,000 |
| 1854 | First year of Type 2, Philadelphia issue | $400–$5,000 |
| 1856-S | San Francisco issue, transitional year | $600–$4,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- James B. Longacre
- Years
- 1854–1856
- Denomination
- $1
- Composition
- 90% gold, 10% copper
- Diameter
- 15 mm
- Weight
- 1.672 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Gold Dollar (Type 2 Indian Princess): History & Background
The Type 2 Gold Dollar is the rarest and most sought-after of the three gold dollar types. James B. Longacre enlarged the diameter and created a new design with a feathered headdress, but the thinner flan made the coins difficult to strike properly. Most examples show weakness, and fully struck specimens are rare. After only three years of production, the design was modified into the Type 3, which proved more suitable for production. The 1855-C and 1855-D from the Charlotte and Dahlonega branch mints are key rarities.
How to Grade a Gold Dollar (Type 2 Indian Princess)
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 →