1875 G$1 MS60 OGH PCGS GOLD CAC

The 1875 gold dollar is among the most coveted business-strike issues in U.S. numismatics, distinguished by an extraordinary mintage of just 400 circulation strikes, the lowest for any regularly-issued U.S. gold coin of the era. Its production was so limited that nearly all examples exhibit fully prooflike surfaces — a result of the dies retaining their initial polish throughout the brief run. This characteristic often led early catalogers to mistake business strikes for proofs, though die diagnostics, notably a thorn-like projection from Liberty’s neck into the field, reliably distinguish the two. This Type 3, Indian Princess, Large Head example, certified PCGS MS60 in an Old Green Holder and awarded the coveted Gold CAC sticker, ranks among the best available. Both sides exhibit fully prooflike fields with a rich palette of yellow-gold with honey and subtle orange undertones. The fields reflect light with a bright, mirrored quality, while the frosted devices add welcome contrast. The strike is uniformly sharp, with intricate detail evident in Liberty’s headdress, hair curls, and the wreath. Both sides are free of distracting abrasions, showing only moderate marks that is obviously not consistent with the grade. The most recent relevant auction comp was for a lower grade AU58 PCGS CAC for $16,200 11/24 SB. With an estimated survival of approximately 100 pieces in all grades and only a fraction certified in Mint State. The presence of the Gold CAC, low mintage, OGH attests to its superior placement for a highly distinguished specimen of this classic rarity.