The Indian Princess Gold Coin (Type 2)
The story behind this coin is both interesting and a true example of the history and opinions of the time. The coin was redesigned not once, not twice, but three times before the ultimate design was settled on. There’s type 1, type 2, and type 3. The United States Mint finally decided on the third design and stayed with that coin for decades before finally moving on.
Specifications
- Years produced: This coin was produced between 1849 and 1889. Each of the types was produced for a specific period of time before a new iteration came along.
- Mint mark: varies based on the location of production
- Manufacturer: United States Mint (at a mint location in the United States)
- Purity: .900
- Thickness: 1.02 mm
- Diameter: 13 mm
- Face value: $1 USD
- Denomination: 1
- Country of Issuance: United States
- Designer of Oberse: James B. Longacre
- Designer of Reverse: James B. Longacre
Design
This coin is prized for its simple aesthetic, an ode to early American history and to Greco-Roman art.
Obverse
There’s a bit of controversy when it comes to the look of the figure on this coin. What isn’t disputed is that the woman on the obverse of the coin is Lady Liberty. Lady Liberty is featured on other American coins, including the coin design that came before this one. The previous design was the Lady Liberty (type 1) gold coin. What she wears on her head is the source of debate. Some say that she’s fitted in a Native American feather headdress. Other numismatics say she’s wearing a Greco-Roman inspired crown. Featured on the Lady Liberty (type 2) coin is a profile of Lady Liberty in a crown. The crown features thirteen stars to represent the thirteen original colonies.
On the coin’s obverse we see Lady Liberty, as she faces off to the left in a familiar profile-style pose. Her flowing, curly hair is held in place by an ornamental headpiece. The headpiece appears to be beaded in the middle and surrounded by what some see as feathers. Those who believe the design is Greco-Roman inspired believe the piece is inspired specifically by the “Crouching Venus” statue. Crouching Venus, otherwise known as Lely Venus is a Hellenistic model of the goddess Venus as she crouches in surprise while taking a bath. Though the coin is a profile, only displaying Lady Liberty’s head, the comparisons to Crouching Venus surround the style of the engraving and the overall aesthetic of the coin. Whatever your stance on the coin, the Indian Princess (type 2) gold coin is a great collector’s item that is highly valued, rare, and historical. Plus, it has a great story to go along with it.
Reverse
On the coin’s reverse is an early American wreath filled with cotton, tobacco, corn, and wheat. It is a nod to American farmers, who worked hard to till the land and feed generations of Americans with their hard work and agricultural expertise. The wreath of American crops looks bountiful as it’s set against an all gold backdrop. The back of the coin also features the year the coin was minted and the denomination of the coin. The coin’s face value is $1.
What is the Liberty Head (Type 1) Gold Dollar?
When talking about the Indian Princess (type 2) gold dollar, the Liberty Head gold dollar should be mentioned. The Liberty Head was the first iteration of the gold $1 USD. On the Liberty Head version, Lady Liberty’s hair is held in a bun and a tiara graces the top of her head. Thirteen stars float in the tiara, an ode to the thirteen original colonies. On the back of the Liberty Head is a similar wreath of wheat and berries – wheat is one of the most important crops in America’s fertile history.
Customer Testimonial
Can I sell my $1 Indian Princess (Type 2) Gold Coin?
Yes. When coins are rare, they’re more valuable with collectors. Because these coins were made prior to 1933, they’re considered to be rare. These coins also have value attached to them because of their place in American history. The coin is an ode to America’s agricultural roots. Also, there is a value associated with their gold content. If you’re looking to buy these coins, you’ll want to work with a reputable dealer that knows the value of these coins and will give you the most fair quote.
Can I purchase a $1 Indian Princess (Type 2) Gold Coin?
Yes. Buying from a professional is incredibly important in order to get the best deal and the best quality of coin. You’ll want to work with someone that knows the value of the coin for its metal content AND its historical value. You’ll want to work with someone that understands what coins are valuable and which coins collectors don’t value.
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