1881 $20 AU58 NGC....

Description

1881 Double Eagle, AU58
Formidable Philadelphia Rarity
Only 2,199 Coins Struck, Few Survive

1881 $20 AU58 NGC. Double eagle mintages were extremely low at the Philadelphia Mint in the early-to-mid 1880s, with the 1881 issue starting a run of rare Philadelphia twenties that did not abate until 1888. During those years, the San Francisco Mint provided the most double eagle production, supported by a few moderate double eagle mintages by the Carson City Mint. In 1881, the San Francisco production was 727,000 pieces; meanwhile, only 2,199 double eagles were struck in Philadelphia. Paper currency circulated widely in commerce and gold coins were seldom seen -- especially the larger denominations. Silver coins circulated in abundance. Not surprisingly with such a small mintage, the 1881 double eagle is scarce at the About Uncirculated level today and it is unarguably rare any finer. Nearly all examples are prooflike or partially so, including this gleamingly radiant, nearly Mint State coin. As seen on most 1881 double eagles, the reflective surfaces are peppered with small marks and minor abrasions. A pinpoint-sharp strike remains prominent throughout both sides. Flashy mint luster dominates the sparkling, rich gold fields and devices, which maintain a fresh and frosty abundance of eye appeal. Survival estimates for the 1881 twenty run from two dozen examples to no more than 60 pieces in all grades combined. PCGS reports only six pieces in higher grades than the present example. NGC has seen another four pieces in full Mint State (1/23). While double eagle enthusiasts seldom attempt the entire 1880s subset either in circulation strike, proof, or a combination of those formats, the 1881 is one of the most challenging key dates. This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an impressive near-Mint example.(Registry values: N4719)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26BC, PCGS# 8994, Greysheet# 9819)

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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