1858 Three Dollar Gold (1858 $3) NGC MS60. 1858 $3 Indian Princess Head. The original intent for the $3 gold piece was to facilitate the purchasing of postage stamps which were sold in sheets of 100 in the mid 1850s. The series was discontinued in 1889 as a result of an increase in postage rates and a lack of other demand for the coin. However, this peculiar denomination has long been popular with collectors, particularly as a gold type coin.

The 1858 issue has an extremely low mintage of just 2,133 pieces and it is estimated that less than 300 examples survive to this day in any grade. Most often encountered in grades Extra Fine and below, just 3 pieces have been certified in grade with 16 higher at PCGS/NGC combined. It is worthy to note that the finest specimen in the National Numismatic Collection in the Smithsonian Institution is AU-50.

Both attractive and extremely rare, the mint state specimen offered here is well struck and bold. The rich dark golden amber surfaces are immaculate and free from notable impairments and the eye appeal is fresh and wholesome. Wonderfully original and remarkably scarce, this fine example will fit nicely into an elite rare gold or type collection.