1896 $20 PR65 PCGS. CAC (Gold Sticker)....

Description

Rare 1896 Liberty Head Double Eagle, PR65
Deeply Reflective Fields, Frosty Devices

1896 $20 PR65 PCGS. CAC (Gold Sticker). At 128 pieces, the 1896 Liberty Head twenty enjoys the largest proof mintage of any 19th century double eagle. Of course, in absolute terms, the production figure is still extremely small, and the issue is rarer than one would expect in today's market. In their Encyclopedia of U.S. Gold Coins 1795-1933, Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth estimate only 45-50 specimens are known today in all proof grades. At the Gem Proof level coins are very rare. Currently, NGC has certified only a single coin in PR65, with none finer; while PCGS has graded five specimens in PR65, with three finer (11/09).
Few collectors were interested in collecting double eagles in 1896, but a small number of specialists and advanced collectors did order gold proofs from the Mint every year. For example, Virgil Brand recorded his receipt of his usual order of proofs, including a double eagle, on August 24, 1896. John H. Clapp received his proof 1896 double eagle in November of that year. New York collector James Ten Eyck apparently purchased a gold proof set from the Mint every year. In the sale of his collection by B. Max Mehl on May 2,1922, lot 337 reads, "1896 $20., $10., $5., $2.50. Very Scarce." Modern collectors have this small group of numismatists to thank for the minuscule supply of 1896 proof double eagles that we know today.
The outstanding quality of the present specimen is attested to by the gold CAC sticker. The insert does not indicate a Cameo designation, but significant elements of contrast are present on both sides. The fields display an unfathomable depth of reflectivity, while thick mint frost covers the fully impressed devices. The surfaces appear pristine at first glance, and only the slightest signs of contact are revealed by close examination. Tremendous visual appeal, coupled with high technical grade make this offering an important opportunity for the discerning collector.(Registry values: P2)

Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# 26EH, PCGS# 9112, GSID# 10095)

Metal: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
Weight: 33.44 grams
AGW: 0.9675oz
Mintage: 128

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 Certification Details from PCGS

View Certification Details from CAC sticker