1860 $3 MS(PCGS#7980)

Summer 2026 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

2253

Grade

MS64

Price

23,180

Lot Description

Subtle prooflike reflectivity shimmers across the fields of this exceptional piece, framing more richly frosted luster across the design elements. Well struck and impressively smooth beneath a glass, the complexion reveals shades of pinkish-apricot iridescence on a base of deep golden-orange color. A truly captivating jewel.<p>The Philadelphia Mint delivered 7,036 three-dollar gold coins for commercial use in 1860, many of which were likely melted after Northern banks suspended gold specie payments in December 1861. Several hundred circulated survivors are known, however, these almost certainly seeing commercial use on the West Coast, where gold remained in circulation throughout the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Uncirculated examples are far rarer, most surviving as a matter of chance. Perhaps fewer than 150 examples of the date can be called Mint State today, most in Mint State-60 to 62, and a only few more can be called Choice. Among the finer 1860 threes that we have handled in recent years, our offering of this endearing near-Gem is a significant opportunity for advanced gold enthusiasts.