1877-S $20 MS65 PCGS....

Description

1877-S Liberty Double Eagle, MS65
Condition Census Example
Tied for the Second-Finest Certified

1877-S $20 MS65 PCGS. The San Francisco Mint struck large numbers of double eagles throughout the second half of the 19th century, and 1877-S is certainly no exception. More than 1.7 million Liberty twenties were struck that year, and the coins were largely released into circulation. Other examples were used to settle large accounts in both foreign and domestic trade. Clearly, few high-quality examples were saved for numismatic purposes. Most examples seen today are heavily bagmarked specimens recovered from European holdings, or else they are worn circulated pieces that fulfilled their intended function in the hard money economy of the Western United States. The 1877-S is a rare issue at the MS63 grade level, and finer coins are very rare. To help substantiate that fact, this MS65 example is the finest 1877-S double eagle we have handled by two full points throughout Heritage's 25+ years of archived public auctions. We have handled many important gold collections over the years including most recently the Harry Bass, Jr. Core Collection. None of those famous collections held an 1877-S finer than the MS63 level.

The present coin is an impressive Gem specimen exceeded only by a single MS65+ example at PCGS. As such, it is firmly tied for the second spot on the Condition Census including MS65 examples at PCGS and NGC combined -- a total of five examples in all, plus a sixth MS65 example from The Saddle Ridge Hoard. Struck from lightly clashed dies, this later die state example shows lines in Liberty's ear from the reverse shield and faint die clashing to the left of the shield on the reverse. A full strike defines the design elements and pleasing surfaces reveal only a few minor grazes on the obverse and isolated tiny residues of Mint grime on the reverse. Vibrant mint luster radiates from the frosty, sun-gold surfaces offering outstanding eye appeal. This exceptional 1877-S is destined for a top-tier Registry Set or any advanced double eagle set. PCGS Population: 3 in 65 (1 in 65+), 0 finer (1/25).(Registry values: N1)
From The Mississippi Collection of Double Eagles, Part II.

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26B2, PCGS# 8984, Greysheet# 9927)

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.

View all of [The Mississippi Collection of Double Eagles, Part II ]

View Certification Details from PCGS