1913 $20 MS65 PCGS....

Description

1913 Double Eagle, MS65
A Top-Grade PCGS Rarity

1913 $20 MS65 PCGS. In 1913, the Philadelphia Mint struck only 168,700 double eagles, most of which never experienced significant domestic circulation. After the outbreak of the War in 1914, double eagle coinage at Philadelphia continued a slump that culminated in no gold coinage at all from 1917 to 1919. Exports of gold, however, were substantial during this period, especially in exchange with Canada, which was also on the gold standard at the time. United States gold already in Europe and South America largely stayed there. Recent research by Roger Burdette estimates that most of the 1913 double eagles known today originated in European holdings and show the heavy bagmarks typically associated with European bank transactions. Most of the high-grade pieces extant are thought to have come from South America in the 1960s or '70s, where frequent jostling in bags was less of an epidemic.

Burdette estimates that about 5,700 1913 double eagles are known in all grades. These are largely in the MS61 to MS64 grade range with a quantity of high-end AU pieces. Gems are distinguished rarities. The MS65 population is slightly weighted toward NGC-graded coins, and PCGS pieces draw proportionately higher demand. A lone Premium Gem has been listed on the NGC Census since at least 2002, but no coin in that grade has ever sold at auction -- after a while one tends to become a skeptic about whether or not the coin still resides in that holder.

This Gem is the first top-grade PCGS coin that we have handled in more than a year. In our August 2016 ANA Signature sale, a similarly attractive example garnered more than $61,000. This piece yields vibrant, frosty orange-gold luster and sharp design elements. No distracting abrasions are seen, and eye appeal abounds. One of the finest pieces available, this condition rarity is worthy of a premium bid. Population: 15 in 65, 0 finer (10/17).(Registry values: N7079)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26FN, PCGS# 9161, Greysheet# 10140)

Weight: 33.44 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

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