A $1 Liberty gold coin contains exactly 0.04837 ounces of pure gold. This specific coin, officially known as the Liberty Head Type 1 Gold Dollar, was the first regular-issue gold dollar coin produced by the United States Mint.
Understanding the $1 Liberty Gold Coin
The $1 Liberty gold coin, specifically the Type 1 variety, represents a significant piece of American coinage history. It was a small, yet valuable, denomination issued following the California Gold Rush, which dramatically increased the nation's gold supply.
- Production Years: These coins were minted for a relatively short period, from 1849 until 1854.
- Mint Locations: The production was not limited to a single facility. These gold dollars were struck at various branches of the U.S. Mint, including:
- Philadelphia (the primary mint)
- Dahlonega (D)
- Charlotte (C)
- New Orleans (O)
- San Francisco (S)
Key Specifications of the Type 1 Gold Dollar
To provide a clear overview, here are the essential specifications of the $1 Liberty (Type 1) gold coin:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Denomination | $1 USD |
| Coin Type | Liberty Head Type 1 Gold Dollar |
| Years Minted | 1849 – 1854 |
| Pure Gold Content | 0.04837 ounces |
| Total Weight | 1.672 grams |
| Fineness | 0.900 (90% Gold, 10% Copper) |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
Historical Context and Design
The introduction of the gold dollar coin in 1849 was a direct response to the influx of gold from California. The Coinage Act of 1849 authorized the creation of this new denomination. The Type 1 design features a coroneted Liberty Head on the obverse (front) and a wreath encircling the denomination "1 DOLLAR" and the year on the reverse (back). Its small size, due to the high value of gold, often made it inconvenient for daily transactions, leading to later design changes (Type 2 and Type 3 Gold Dollars, which were slightly larger and thinner).
For more detailed information on specific gold dollar types and their history, you can explore resources from the United States Mint or reputable numismatic organizations.
