1853-O Gold Dollar. Winter-1. MS-66 (PCGS).This is an extraordinary survivor from the New Orleans Mint gold dollar series, a beautiful Gem Mint State example of the Type I design. The strike is bold to sharp throughout with most design elements fully defined. Accuracy alone compels us to mention a touch of softness in the centers on both sides, although this feature is not readily evident to the unaided eye. Bathed in a blend of rich medium gold patina and softly frosted luster, the surfaces are smooth and inviting.pAlthough the 1851-O has an identical mintage (290,000 coins), the 1853-O is the most readily obtainable New Orleans Mint gold dollar in todays market. Both circulated and Mint State survivors are particularly prized among mintmarked gold type collectors, although few will ever have the opportunity to acquire an example that is a close to pristine as the premium quality Gem offered here. A condition rarity par excellence, and tied for finest certified at PCGS, this coin would serve as a highlight in even the finest numismatic cabinet.pThis coin was struck from a rusted obverse die (most readily evident on Libertys portrait) and a reverse die identifiable by a series of rust-like die lines from the left border to the tops of the letters ITE in UNITED. We have handled a few other high grade 1853-O gold dollars struck from this die pairing over the years, suggesting that a small hoard of Choice and Gem-quality coins survived. If so, the number of coins involved was undoubtedly limited, and they have been widely dispersed since entering the numismatic market.
