1861 G$1 (1861 Gold Dollar) NGC MS66. This superb, gem Civil War dated 1861 Gold Dollar is what is known as a condition rarity. It is tied for second best in both of the major grading services reports. As expected for this grade, the coin has excellent, clean surfaces and is virtually mark free. The strike is sharp and bold with every hair line, feather end, and bow knot detail fully struck up. Bright mint luster highlights the devices and enhances the beauty of the piece.

The gold dollar was designed by James B. Longacre. The coin shows Liberty wearing a stylized feather headdress as she looks to the left in profile. She is surrounded by the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The reverse shows an open wreath of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco tied at the bottom with a bow. In the center of the wreath is the denomination written as a large 1 with DOLLAR under it followed by the date.

In 1844, through the influence of John C. Calhoun, Longacre was made Chief Engraver at the Mint, where he succeeded the late Christian Gobrecht. Longacres experience was limited, but he was a talented artist. By 1849 he was able to create the gold dollar and double eagle, the design of which lasted until well into the twentieth century. One of Longacres associates, Chief Coiner Franklin Peale, opposed Longacres appointment and became an obstructionist. Peale ran a lucrative, private medal-making business using Mint facilities, and he felt that Longacres presence would jeopardize it. In 1854 Peale was fired by President Franklin Pearce, and Longacres life became easier. Longacre remained Chief Engraver until his death in 1869. Coins from Longacres estate were auctioned in 1870. They included patterns, coins of Chile, and regularly issued coins.

The 1861 gold dollar had an original mintage of 527,150, a fairly large mintage for Civil War times, low compared to modern production numbers. In its population report, NGC has certified 1155 1861 gold dollars in all conditions. In MS66 there are 8 with only 2 better. At PCGS there are 7 with 3 better.