Gobrecht Dollars Starred Obverse
(1838-39)
The second variety of Gobrecht Silver Dollars features a starred obverse and was made at the US Mint in 1838 and 1839. In 1838 approximately 25 pieces were made and these were all considered to be pattern coins. Conversely, the coins minted in 1839 were for circulation and amounted to about 300 pieces. An interesting fact with regard to this entire series, from 1836 to 1839, is that it is the only US Coin, produced in proof format, and intended entirely for circulation. Because of the sharp strikes that are characteristic of this series, they are very difficult to counterfeit.
The obverse of these silver coins was originally sketched by Thomas Sully and features a figure of liberty seated on a rock. Her right hand resting on a union shield, and left grasping a pole topped with a liberty cap with the date below. The entire design is surrounded by thirteen six-pointed stars.
The reverse of the coin shows a flying eagle design by Titan Peale with the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR" encircling the eagle.
Coin Specifications:
Designer: Christian Gobrehct
Weight: 26.73 grams
Comp: 90.0% Silver, 10.0% Copper
Diameter: 39mm
Edge: Reeded
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