1865 Gold Dollar. MS-67 (PCGS). CAC.Gorgeous golden-orange surfaces are highly lustrous with a satin to modestly semi-reflective finish. The dies also imparted razor sharp to full definition to even the most intricate elements of the design. Virtually pristine, as one should expect at the assigned grade level, this coin would do justice to the finest collection of classic U.S. Mint gold coinage.The 1865 is the final Civil War era gold dollar and its mintage of 3,725 pieces ranks among the lowest for its type. Gold coins disappeared from circulation in the East and Midwest early in 1862 after most Northern banks suspended specie payments during the last few days of 1861. This move was due to the economic uncertainty that followed a series of Union setbacks early in the Civil War that included defeat at the hands of Confederate forces at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861. With little bullion reaching the Philadelphia Mint thereafter, it is no wonder that gold dollar production plummeted after a surprisingly high mintage of 1,361,355 circulation strikes in 1862.The 1865 is the rarest circulation strike gold dollar from the Civil War era after only the 1863. Interestingly, and as with the 1864, a number of remarkable Superb Gems are known, suggesting that a few collectors were still active in the North during the war, and also that these numismatists opted to save circulation strikes of these issues alongside or as opposed to Proofs -- a unusual situation during the era. In an absolute sense, of course, an 1865 gold dollar with the quality and eye appeal offered here is a major condition rarity that represents an important opportunity when offered in todays market.
