The Mystery of the Indian Princess

The $3 Indian Princess Gold Piece is renowned by collectors as the most beautiful gold coin struck by the U.S. Mint in the 19th century. But, exactly why the coin was made is a mystery today. And, even back when it was authorized by congress no reason to make it was given. Speculation is that because the first class mail rate was reduced to 3 cents about the same time, best bet is that it was meant to buy a sheet of 100 First Class stamps. An alternate reason at the time said the coin was made to purchase 100 3 cent silver pieces. Perhaps if you didn't want a whole sheet of stamps, you could buy them one at a time. Regardless of the reason, the $3 Indian Princess was never struck in large quantities, and has been scarce and desirable ever since the minting ended in 1889. The coin shows a gorgeous Indian Princess wearing a pom-pom feathered headdress, with the date and denomination enclosed within a "fruits of the land" wreath. We're pleased to offer examples for your consideration. Each dates between 1854 and 1889 is in graded Mint State-61 (MS61) By Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). Don't wait, these are hard to find. Dates vary. Call now!