1857-S Three-Dollar Gold Piece. AU-53 (NGC). The rigors of circulation undoubtedly took a heavy toll on this low mintage (14,000-pieces) three-dollar gold issue from the San Francisco Mint. Elusive in all grades, the 1857-S is typically offered no finer than EF. With light highpoint rub and considerable remnants of mint luster, this coin should be very appealing to 19th century gold specialists. Ample evidence of a sharp strike are seen throughout, as is warm, medium-intensity, yellow-gold color. Minimally abraded and especially attractive. From the Pieper Collection.
