1866-Dated $3 J-C1866-2 Merriam fantasy -- NGC UNC Details

UNIQUE. This Enigmatic "1866" Three Dollar Pattern by Joseph H. Merriam displays the Popular Lincoln Portrait Design that has Unique Gold Striking with a Plain Edge "1866" (1868). The obverse features A bearded bust of President Lincoln facing right, the motto GOD AND OUR COUNTRY above and the date 1866 below. The Reverse displays a wreath of oak and laurel surrounding the denomination as a Roman numeral III. Scroll ornamentation is at the top of the wreath, and includes a six-pointed star. Delightful satin to softly frosted surfaces display a sharp to full strike throughout. Even medium gold patina is evident on both sides. Closer inspection with a loupe reveals light filing here and there around the rims that confirms the NGC qualifier. This piece is attractive and of the utmost rarity and significance.