1842-O $10 MS63 PCGS. CAC. Variety 1....

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1842-O Eagle, MS63
Sole Finest Survivor, CAC Approval
Major Branch Mint Condition Rarity

1842-O $10 MS63 PCGS. CAC. Variety 1. This is a monumental offering for Liberty Head eagle collectors and specialists in New Orleans Mint gold. It is well-established as the single finest 1842-O ten dollar gold piece extant.

The Louisiana branch mint coined 27,400 eagles in 1842, its fifth year of operation but only the second year in which it produced coins of this denomination. The issue is scarce in the absolute sense with an estimated survivorship of 175 to 225 pieces. A decent number of those survive in AU condition thanks to the recovery of 17 coins from the S.S. Republic. However, only one example from that wreck was deemed Uncirculated: an MS61 first certified by NGC. In all, there are merely four or five examples of this elusive issue known in mint condition, including a possible presentation piece from the Bernard Shore Collection (Superior, 1-2/1988). That coin is certified PCGS Genuine with Altered Surfaces.

This unrivaled Select example holds top spot among all known survivors. Both the MS60 and MS61 coins are expectedly baggy, but this MS63 is comparatively smooth. Chatter occurs on each side and there are a couple of obvious abrasions near the nose, but they are minor in the grand scheme of things. Brightly frosted yellow-gold surfaces display a strong impression. Most star radials are defined, all but the curls directly over the ear are fully delineated, and the lightly clashed reverse has sharp feathers, claws, and olive leaves.

This piece was last made available publicly more than two decades ago. We would not be surprised in the slightest to see it disappear into strong hands for a similar length of time following this appearance. Collectors should bid accordingly. Housed in a green label holder. Population: 1 in 63, 0 finer. CAC: 1 in 63, 0 finer (1/18).
Ex: Stack's (9/1996), lot 1614.
From The Admiral Collection. (Registry values: N1) (NGC ID# 262N, PCGS# 8587)

Weight: 16.72 grams

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper

Learn more at the Newman Numismatic Portal at Washington University in St. Louis.

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