1874 Gold Dollar, PCGS MS-64

This 1874 Philadelphia Gold Dollar represents a readily available example from the later years of the Type III Liberty Gold Dollar series. Struck from a mintage of 198,800 pieces, this diminutive gold coin displays the classic design by James Barton Longacre, featuring Lady Liberty in profile on the obverse and an eagle with shield on the reverse. Composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, the coin weighs 1.7 grams and measures 14.3mm in diameter with reeded edge.

The present example has been certified by PCGS as MS-64, indicating a well-preserved specimen with attractive eye appeal and only minor imperfections consistent with the grade. According to PCGS population data, 383 examples have been graded higher, with 675 total submissions of this date and mintmark, reflecting its relative availability in the marketplace. The 1874 is the second-most common Type III gold dollar after the 1862, making it accessible to collectors at all levels.

The 1874 is notable for the existence of multiple die varieties, including examples with full LIBERTY, partial LIBERTY, and missing LIBERTY inscriptions on the obverse. This characteristic adds collecting interest for specialists pursuing die variety collections. At the MS-64 grade level, this coin represents an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality representative of this popular series without the premium associated with gem examples.