$3 Gold Indian Princess (1854–1889)
The $3 Gold piece is one of the most unusual and fascinating denominations of U.S. coinage. While impractical in commerce, it is highly respected among advanced numismatists for its rarity, distinctive design, and the challenging nature of assembling a complete set.
Origins & Purpose
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Authorized by the Act of February 21, 1853, the $3 denomination was proposed partly to simplify bulk purchases of 100-count sheets of 3¢ postage stamps and rolls of silver three-cent pieces.
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Struck first in 1854, it was produced regularly but in small numbers through 1889, when the denomination was discontinued.
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Low circulation demand meant most pieces survived in relatively high grade, but low mintages make the series a rarity field.
Design & Artistic Significance
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Designed by James B. Longacre, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint.
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Obverse: “Indian Princess” head — not an actual Native American portrait, but Liberty wearing a feathered headdress with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around.
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Reverse: Agricultural wreath of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco encircling the denomination and date.
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This agricultural motif is unique in U.S. coinage, symbolizing the economic staples of the nation.
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Coin specifications:
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Composition: .900 fine gold, .100 copper
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Weight: 5.015 g
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Diameter: 20.5 mm
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AGW: 0.1451 troy oz
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Edge: Reeded
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Mints & Production
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Primarily struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
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In 1854 only, coins were also struck at New Orleans (O), Dahlonega (D), and San Francisco (S).
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The 1854-D is the only Dahlonega $3 coin and is considered one of the greatest Southern branch-mint rarities.
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The 1854-O and 1854-S are also highly coveted as one-year branch mint issues.
Rarities & Key Dates
The series is rich in key issues:
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1854-D: Legendary rarity; one of the scarcest branch mint gold coins.
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1854-O: Very low mintage, major New Orleans rarity.
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1854-S: First and only San Francisco issue of the series.
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1875 & 1876: Ultra-rarities with 20 and 45 pieces struck, respectively. Almost unobtainable.
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1877: Extremely rare (1,468 struck), a key Civil War–era coin.
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1881–1884: All very low mintage (500–6,000 range).
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1889: Final-year issue, popular as a series closer.
Legacy
The $3 Gold Indian Princess remains a denomination born of experiment and logic on paper but impractical in circulation. Its short lifespan, artistic uniqueness, and legendary rarities have elevated it into one of the most fascinating and challenging U.S. gold series for advanced collectors.
Summary
- Short-lived denomination, struck only 1854–1889.
- Distinct Longacre design with symbolic agriculture wreath.
- Four mints involved, but 1854-D, 1854-O, and 1854-S are branch mint rarities.
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Series contains ultra-rarities (1875, 1876) almost unobtainable outside elite collections.
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Proofs and high-grade survivors bring strong premiums.