Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby where collectors look for rare and valuable coins.
Among these treasures, some coins stand out because of unique mint errors. One such coin is the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar, which has an exciting double-strike error.
This rare U.S. gold coin, with a special off-center second strike, is a highly sought-after piece for numismatists. Let’s take a closer look at the rarity, historical significance, and value of this unique coin.
What Makes the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar Special?
The 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar was minted at the New Orleans Mint, with only 55,000 coins produced. What makes this coin stand out is its double-strike error. A double-struck coin happens when a coin is hit by the minting press twice. The second strike on this coin is 95% off-center, making it an extremely rare and unique piece. In fact, it is the only known U.S. gold coin from 1795 to 1933 with this type of minting flaw.
Understanding the Double-Strike Error
What Is a Double-Struck Coin?
A double-struck coin is one that has been struck twice by the minting press. Normally, coins are struck once to create a clear image. However, if the coin is misaligned during the second strike, it results in an off-center image, as seen on the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar. These types of errors are very rare, especially in gold coins, making this coin highly valuable to collectors.
The New Orleans Mint and Its Significance
The New Orleans Mint, established in 1835, has a rich history of producing some of the most famous U.S. coins. The 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar was produced at this mint, and its double-strike error makes it an even more important historical piece. Though only 55,000 coins were minted in 1855, this rare coin has gained significant attention due to its flaw and the history of the New Orleans Mint, which operated until 1861 and then resumed in 1879.
Value of the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar
Because of its rare double-strike error, the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar is considered priceless by collectors. There are only three major errors known in this series of gold coins, making this double-struck specimen especially rare. This coin is not just a collectible but a piece of U.S. minting history. Its uniqueness and historical background add to its great value in the world of numismatics.
Other Notable Double-Struck U.S. Gold Coins
While the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar is unique, other U.S. gold coins have also featured mint errors, such as:
- 1804 $2 1/2 Draped Bust: Double-struck with the first strike 25% off-center, valued at $25,000.
- 1806 $5 Capped Bust: Triple-struck, with a 90-degree rotation, sold for $50,000.
- 1865 $1 Indian Gold Proof: Triple-struck reverse, valued at $20,000.
Though these coins are rare, none feature the exceptional off-center double-strike error that the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar does.
The 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar is one of the most unique and valuable coins in the world of numismatics. Its rare double-strike error, combined with its historical background at the New Orleans Mint, makes it a prized find for any coin collector. With only 55,000 minted and the special 95% off-center second strike, this coin is not just a collectible but a piece of U.S. minting history.
1. What is a double-struck coin?
A double-struck coin is one that has been hit twice by the minting press, causing a misalignment in the second strike.
2. Why is the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar special?
This coin is special due to its rare double-strike error, which makes it unique among U.S. gold coins.
3. How many 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollars were minted?
Only 55,000 of these coins were minted at the New Orleans Mint in 1855.
4. What is the value of the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar?
This coin is considered priceless due to its rarity, historical significance, and unique double-strike error.
5. Are there other rare U.S. gold coins with mint errors?
Yes, there are other rare U.S. gold coins with errors, but none have the same off-center double-strike as the 1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar.
