1836 PG$1 Gold Dollar, Judd-67, Pollock-70, R.5, PR66 PCGS....

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1836 Cap and Rays Gold Dollar Pattern
From the Original Striking Period
Judd-67, PR66

1836 PG$1 Gold Dollar, Judd-67, Pollock-70, R.5, PR66 PCGS. Christian Gobrecht both designed and engraved the dies for this gold dollar pattern. The influence of Mexican coinage is clearly seen on the obverse design showing a Liberty cap surrounded by rays of glory. The reverse features the denomination 1 D. within a coiled palm frond, with the date below and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA above. Struck in coin gold with a 10% copper alloy and a plain edge. Original 1836 patterns were struck prior to March 14 of that year, as established by Walter Breen based on the date Mint Director Patterson sent a gold pattern to Secretary of the Treasury Levi Woodbury.

Judd-67 is the first gold dollar pattern struck in anticipation of future coinage (which did not materialize until 13 years later). It is also one of the few patterns, actually struck in gold that can be obtained at a somewhat reasonable price.

Both originals and restrikes exist for Judd-67. Originals, such as this piece, have a coin turn and are alloyed with 10% copper. According to Akers, restrikes from January of 1844 are alloyed with the same percentage of silver and have a medallic turn. However, there are exceptions, with some restrikes showing a coin turn. A second restriking period during the 1860s is indicated by a gold example overstruck on an 1859 gold dollar. That piece is featured on the USPatterns.com website. Gobrecht's design was also restruck in silver, copper, and either oroide or copper-nickel.

This magnificent example displays deeply reflective proof fields. Set against the mirrors is noticeable mint frost over the devices, which yields a moderate cameo contrast. The surfaces are extraordinarily clean; the only interruptions are three tiny planchet voids on the reverse. Even reddish-gold color covers each side. Only two other pieces have been so graded by PCGS, and none are certified finer (1/14). This is the most eye-appealing, original example that this cataloger has seen.
From The Riverboat Collection.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26VC, PCGS# 11260, GSID# 11979)

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View Certification Details from PCGS