Because of the unusual design technique, it is difficult to grade these coins accurately, and acquiring certified specimens is a must. Prices too, are static. When the government reduced postage rates from 5 cents to 3 cents in 1853, it was felt that a three dollar coin would encourage and facilitate postage transactions. But they did not prove popular with the public from the time they first appeared in 1854. The series lasted only until 1889, with generally tiny mintages ranging from 1,000 to 7,000.
Prices are relatively unchanged across the board.
These are among the most desirable US gold type coins produced in the 20th century. No point-change worth mentioning, and the single flag raised for this type continues to be a BUY for PR 63. Earlier coins are exceedingly rare in uncirculated condition. Proof ratings are the same as the previous report. These were minted in only 15 of the 26 years the series existed.