Noted numismatist Bowers gives the reader not only a guidebook to gold dollars (which were minted throughout the 1800s), but also includes a history of the gold coin in general, a chapter about mints and the minting process, and tips on how to be a smart coin buyer. The majority of the text is devoted to listing and describing the particulars of the three types of gold dollars: Coronet or Liberty Head design, Indian Princess, and Indian Princess (Modified). Collectors will find this work informative and well-researched. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)