1849 Gold Dollar ($1) No L

The 1849 Gold Dollar holds the distinction of being the very first year of issue for this denomination, making it a cornerstone date for any collection. Authorized by the Act of March 3, 1849, these coins were struck using California gold fresh from the rush that had begun the year before. The "No L" designation simply indicates the standard Type 1 variety, where the "L" of Longacre's initial is absent from the wreath on the reverse. With a mintage of 688,567 pieces, the 1849 saw heavy production to meet the demand for small denomination gold coins during this exciting period in American history.

This PCGS MS62 example showcases lovely golden-yellow surfaces with strong cartwheel luster that rotates beautifully under light. The strike is sharp throughout, with full detail visible in Liberty's hair curls and the reverse wreath. The coin displays excellent eye appeal for the grade, with clean fields and minimal contact marks. A few light abrasions keep it from a higher grade, but the overall preservation is quite nice. The original mint bloom remains intact, giving this first-year Gold Dollar a fresh, appealing look that perfectly captures the excitement of the California Gold Rush era.