Much has been written about the Gobrecht dollars in recent times. As a result, the status of both originals and restrikes of several issues has been disputed, and sometimes altered as well. PCGS has listed this particular coin as a restrike in the slab, because of the die alignment III, identified by the eagle on the reverse. On the originals, the eagle is flying to the left and upward. On restrikes, such as this piece, the eagle is flying level to the left.

The originals of this particular design were minted in late 1836 and early 1836. A total of 1,000 coins were made, which were all struck in Proof format. However, recent research has concluded that they were actually struck for circulation, and many coins ended up there. Examples are available in all grades, from low circulated grades to pristine Proof uncirculated, indicating that pieces indeed circulated for sometime as the first Silver dollars produced since 1804.

Gobrecht dollars have been extremely popular since they were minted, and this was also the reason restrikes such as this piece were created in the 1860’s and 1870’s. Often made for the profit of private Mint employees, collectors bought a large number of examples, altering the rarity of many pattern and regular Proof issues. However, because of this, examples like the present dollar are available to collectors, and many issues are very popular.

Although this coin is only graded as a PR-61 by PCGS, it has the looks of a higher grade. The coin is very original, with wholesome grey-green color showing on both sides. The strike is extremely strong, with mirrored fields showing under the subdued toning. No major hits are seen on either side, even under strong magnification. A great coin which is sure to please any collector looking for an original example of this popular issue.