1859 GOLD DOLLAR

PCGS Nos: 7551, 7609, 97609

Mintage:
Circulation strikes: 168,244
Proofs: 80

Designer: James Barton Longacre

Diameter: ±14.3 millimeters

Metal content:
 Gold - 90%
Silver and Copper - 10%

Weight: ±25.8 grains (±1.7 grams)

Edge: Reeded

Mintmark: None (for Philadelphia, PA) below the wreath on the reverse

Images courtesy of Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.

Notes:
The finest Uncirculated example graded by PCGS is a single MS-68.

The finest Proof examples graded by PCGS are 2 PR-65's.

The finest Proof Cameo example graded by PCGS is a single PR-64.

The finest Proof Deep Cameo example graded by PCGS is a single PR-66.  

Significant examples:
NGC Proof-65 Cameo (illustrated above).  Ex - Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc.'s "The California Sale", October 2-3, 2000, Lot 643 @$11,500.00, where it was described as follows: "One of the finest known of this date, NGC in their Population Report notes just 3 have been graded this high, with none graded higher. Similar at PCGS, with their Population Report noting only 2 so graded, also with none graded higher. Hence, this is one of the finest known, tied with 4 others reported. Light coppery toning on the devices with deeply mirrored fields surrounding. Satiny frost on the devices provide maximum contrast over the mirror fields, enough to earn the coveted "Cameo" designation by NGC. It appears that the planchet wasn't quite perfect when this one was made, as there is a small arc noted in the field before Liberty's neck, and a minor rough patch below her bust. These minor flaws were present at the time the coin was struck, and similar planchet areas are noted on virtually every proof gold coin seen. If you demand the finest of the finest, then look no further than this lot."

About Uncirculated.  Ex- Stack's "The September Sale", September 12-13, 2000, Lot 1410  @$172.50

Sources and/or recommended reading:
"The PCGS Population Report, April 2004" by The Professional Coin Grading Service