Stack’s Bowers Galleries is pleased to be offering a lovely Ultra Gem 1863 gold dollar that delivers impeccable quality and eye appeal in the November 2024 Auction. It is in a stellar level of preservation especially for this low mintage Civil War era issue. Extraordinary surfaces glow with rich, vivid, golden-orange color that delivers strong visual appeal. The finish is bright and frosty, and the fields are semi-reflective. Fully struck and virtually perfect in every way, even the most discerning numismatist will be impressed by this gorgeous piece.
Circulation strike gold coinage at the Philadelphia Mint remained low in 1863, as the Civil War reached its turning point with the twin Union victories at Vicksburg and Gettysburg. Most gold coins were melted, and given that the few survivors are predominantly About Uncirculated or Mint State, this issue clearly did not circulate to an appreciable extent. This is typical of most gold and silver issues from the Philadelphia Mint struck during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras, when coins were hoarded domestically, or were exported and eventually melted as bullion. With an estimated 50 to 80 Mint State coins extant, the 1863 is the rarest Philadelphia Mint gold dollar after only the legendary 1875, of which only 400 circulation strikes were produced.
The coin in our November sale is traced to S.H. and H. Chapman’s June 1906 sale of the Major W.B. Wetmore Collection; this coin’s extraordinary quality strongly suggests that Major Wetmore acquired it directly from the Philadelphia Mint at the time of issue. Outstanding in every way, we anticipate strong bidding for this coin that will result in a new record price for a circulation strike 1863 gold dollar.
For more information about the Stack’s Bowers Galleries November 2024 Showcase auction visit StacksBowers.com. To consign your coins or paper money to one of our future sales call 800-458-4646 or email Consign@StacksBowers.com.
