$3 Gold Piece melt value
United States, 1854–1889. Contains 0.14512 troy oz of pure gold. The value below updates with the live spot price.
Specifications
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Years | 1854–1889 |
| Denomination | $3 |
| Composition | 90% gold, 10% copper |
| Total weight | 5.015 g |
| Purity | .900 (90% gold) |
| Pure gold | 4.514 g (0.14512 troy oz) |
| Diameter | 20.5 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse design | James B. Longacre |
| Reverse design | James B. Longacre |
| Face value | $3.00 |
Specifications: U.S. Mint records and Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection.
Common questions
How much gold is in a $3 Gold Piece?
A $3 Gold Piece contains 0.14512 troy ounces (4.514 grams) of pure gold. It weighs 5.015 grams in total and is .900 fine.
How is the melt value of a $3 Gold Piece calculated?
Multiply the pure gold content (0.14512 troy oz) by the current gold spot price. The calculator on this page does this automatically with live prices.
Is a $3 Gold Piece worth more than melt value?
Often, yes. Scarce dates, certain mint marks and coins in high grade sell to collectors for more than their metal content. Common circulated examples usually trade close to melt. Check the date and mint mark before selling.
Related melt values
Melt value is an estimate of metal content at spot price. It is not an offer, appraisal or measure of collector value.