1871 $3 Indian Princess PCGS AU58 CAC








2025/11/12
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Introduction
The 1871 $3 Indian Princess Gold Piece is a rare and captivating survivor from one of the most distinctive denominations in U.S. coinage. Certified AU58 by PCGS and approved by CAC, this coin displays near-Mint State quality with strong remaining luster, sharp design detail, and exceptional originality. It represents one of the last years of regular issue for the $3 Gold series and stands out as a true collector-grade example that bridges rarity, artistry, and preservation.
History
The $3 Gold Piece was authorized by the Act of February 21, 1853, and first struck in 1854. Intended to simplify the purchase of full sheets of 3-cent postage stamps, the denomination never gained traction in daily commerce. By 1871, production had dwindled to just 3,820 business strikes at the Philadelphia Mint, reflecting its low public demand and the government’s gradual move away from gold coin circulation following the Civil War.
Few examples from this issue survived without heavy wear or melting, making AU58 specimens particularly desirable. The CAC seal affirms this coin’s superior quality for the grade, offering collectors an exceptional opportunity to acquire a premium example from this low-mintage and historically significant series.
Design
Chief Engraver James B. Longacre designed the $3 Gold Piece with one of the most elegant motifs in U.S. numismatic art. The obverse depicts Liberty as an Indian Princess, adorned with a feathered headdress inscribed with LIBERTY, symbolizing American unity and progress. The reverse features an intricate wreath of corn, cotton, wheat, and tobacco encircling the denomination and date, representing the agricultural prosperity of 19th-century America.
In AU58 condition, this coin retains nearly full detail and attractive golden luster, with subtle wear limited to the highest points. The 1871 $3 Indian Princess PCGS AU58 CAC embodies both the technical excellence and artistic refinement of the classic U.S. gold era.
| Metal | Gold |
|---|---|
| Year | 1871 |
| Mint | Philadelphia |
| Fineness | .900 |
| Diameter | 20.5mm |
| Weight | 5.015g |
A LITTLE STICKER MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE.
Within each number of the coin grading scale is a small range of condition from low-end to high-end. Certified coins of the same grade can be of varying quality. Many of today’s collectors want coins that are solid or premium quality for their assigned grade. CAC holds coins to a higher standard so you can be confident in the value of yours. We verify previously graded coins … and award our sticker only to those coins that meet the standard for today’s selective buyer.
WHAT THE CAC STICKER MEANS:
- Verified. Your coin has been verified as meeting the standard for strict quality within its grade.
- Guaranteed. CAC stands behind our verification.
THE CAC STICKER IS BACKED BY EXPERIENCE.
CAC was founded by leading members of the numismatic community, including John Albanese, a respected authority on coin grading and the rare coin market.
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