1857-S Three-Dollar Gold Piece. AU-55 (PCGS). An exceptional example of an issue that, when offered at all, is apt to be well worn and/or impaired. This lovely Choice AU survivor, by way of contrast, is sharply defined overall with much of the original satin to semi-prooflike finish remaining. It displays light golden-honey color with pale champagne-pink overtones. Astute three-dollar gold collectors would be wise to take full advantage of this significant opportunity.<p>Of the 14,250 struck, nearly every piece experienced some degree of circulation in the hustle-bustle California economy of the late 1850s. Indeed, an estimated 160 to 225 survive, usually VF to EF, with AU examples such as this considered rare. It is estimated that fewer than a half dozen true Mint State examples of the 1857-S can be accounted for today, confirming the significance of this attractive AU-55. From the Huberman Collection. Acquired from Jonathan K. Kern, December 2014.
