1858 Three Dollar Gold (1858 $3) PCGS AU53. If one were to assemble a set of low mintage gold coins, the 1858 three dollar gold piece could easily be included. A mere 2,133 pieces were produced for circulation, the lowest of the series until 1865. Considered to be among the rarest and most popular issues of the series, examples are still relatively affordable and should be considered to be a good investment.

This issue is surprisingly hard to encounter in Mint-State, indicating that soon after their introduction they had fallen out of favor with collectors of the time. Most Philadelphia issues from this era were generally well saved by wealthy collectors of the time, but this three dollar gold issue is an exception. Only a handful pieces remain to exist in all uncirculated grades, and even in AU this remains to be a very scarce issue.

The present coin is a premium quality coin which has the looks of a higher grade coin. Short wear from circulation is visible on the highest points, but this does not attract from the overall eye-appeal. Sharply struck and bold, with lots of luster remaining in the protected areas. Completely original, with green-gold patina showing on both sides. A great coin for the discriminating collector!