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The Certified US Gold $1 Liberty 1889 MS63 PCGS is an outstanding example of the last gold dollar coin issued by the United States Mint. The Liberty Head Gold Dollar, often referred to as the Type III Gold Dollar, was struck from 1856 to 1889 and marked the final iteration of the smallest denomination in American gold coinage history. The 1889 issue holds special significance as it represents the final year of production for the series, closing a chapter in U.S. monetary history as the nation transitioned away from gold dollar coinage in favor of paper currency and larger gold denominations.
The Gold Dollar was first introduced in 1849 as part of the Coinage Act of 1849, which responded to the influx of gold from the California Gold Rush. The Act authorized the creation of new denominations, including the $1 Gold piece and the $20 Double Eagle. The Gold Dollar was initially minted with a Liberty Head design by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, but the series underwent two major redesigns. The Type III Gold Dollar, introduced in 1856, featured a larger and more refined portrait of Liberty, making it the final and most widely recognized design in the series.
The obverse of the 1889 Gold Dollar showcases a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a feathered headdress, a design often referred to as the "Indian Princess Head." This representation of Liberty was inspired by neoclassical art and was meant to symbolize the strength and unity of the young American nation. The headdress is detailed, with each feather individually engraved to give the design depth and realism. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the headdress band, while thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, encircle the portrait. The date "1889" appears at the bottom of the coin, completing the balanced and elegant design.
The reverse of the coin features an intricately designed wreath encircling the denomination. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" are inscribed along the outer edge, with "1 DOLLAR" prominently displayed in the center. The wreath is composed of cotton, corn, tobacco, and wheat, symbolizing the agricultural wealth of the United States. This design choice highlights the economic foundation of the country during the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of agricultural production in national prosperity. The high relief and detailed engraving make the reverse of the Gold Dollar a fine example of early American coin artistry.
The 1889 Gold Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as indicated by the absence of a mintmark. By the late 19th century, the need for gold dollar coins had diminished significantly due to the increasing popularity of paper currency and larger gold denominations. The Philadelphia Mint was the only facility to produce gold dollars in 1889, making this issue particularly significant as the final year of the series. Advances in minting technology by this time resulted in consistently well-struck coins with strong detail, though many examples still exhibit minor imperfections due to the delicate nature of the small planchets.
The mintage of the 1889 Gold Dollar was 28,950 pieces, making it one of the lower-mintage issues of the series. Although this number is not as scarce as some earlier Gold Dollar issues, it is still relatively small when compared to other U.S. coinage denominations. Many of these coins entered circulation, experiencing wear and loss of detail over time. As a result, high-grade Mint State examples, such as this MS63-certified specimen, are considerably rarer and highly prized by collectors.
The Certified 1889 Gold Dollar MS63 PCGS represents a well-preserved example of the final year of the series. PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) has graded this coin as MS63 (Mint State 63), indicating that it has never been in circulation and retains much of its original mint luster. MS63 coins are considered to be in "Choice Uncirculated" condition, with minor surface abrasions or contact marks that prevent them from reaching higher Mint State grades. Despite these minor imperfections, an MS63 Gold Dollar remains an attractive and valuable collector’s piece.
The obverse of an MS63 specimen should exhibit sharp and well-defined details in Liberty’s portrait, with individual feathers in the headdress clearly visible. The word "LIBERTY" should remain fully legible, with no signs of fading or distortion. While some light contact marks or hairlines may be present in the fields, they should not detract significantly from the coin’s overall eye appeal. The stars surrounding Liberty should be crisp and well-struck, with minimal softness or blurring.
The reverse of an MS63 specimen should display a strong and well-centered wreath, with each leaf and grain stalk finely detailed. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "1 DOLLAR" should be bold and clearly legible, with no signs of excessive wear or weak striking. The fields of the coin should retain a high level of original mint luster, though small marks or abrasions may be visible under magnification. The overall appearance should be bright and appealing, with no signs of cleaning or environmental damage.
One of the key characteristics of an MS63 specimen is its balance between quality and affordability. While MS64 and MS65 examples may exhibit slightly fewer imperfections, an MS63 coin still retains strong eye appeal and historical significance. The luster on an MS63 Gold Dollar should be vibrant, with a natural golden hue that enhances the coin’s visual appeal. Collectors seeking a high-grade example of the 1889 Gold Dollar without paying the premium associated with MS65 or higher grades often find MS63 coins to be an excellent compromise.
The Certified 1889 Gold Dollar MS63 PCGS holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history as the final issue of the Gold Dollar series. Its historical significance, combined with its attractive design and solid preservation, makes it a highly desirable collectible. As the last year of issue, the 1889 Gold Dollar represents the end of an era in American coinage, as the nation moved away from small gold denominations in favor of more practical monetary systems.
For collectors seeking a Certified 1889 Gold Dollar MS63 PCGS, reputable numismatic dealers, online auctions, and specialized coin retailers provide the best opportunities for acquisition. Given the coin’s limited mintage and high grade, ensuring proper authentication through PCGS certification is essential. Collectors should look for specimens with strong visual appeal, well-struck details, and minimal distracting marks, as these factors contribute to the coin’s desirability and long-term investment potential.
The Certified US Gold $1 Liberty 1889 MS63 PCGS remains one of the most sought-after gold coins in American numismatics. With its exquisite design, historical significance, and excellent state of preservation, this coin stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and economic evolution of the United States. Whether admired for its artistic beauty, its role in U.S. history, or its investment potential, the 1889 Gold Dollar continues to captivate collectors and investors worldwide.