Lot 3421
1863-S $20 Liberty. NGC graded MS-60. Lightly toned on both sides. This conditionally rare early S-mint $20 is brilliant with frosty gold surfaces. Normal bagmarking for the grade is expected. Impressive however is the strike, which we find is almost free of censure, being sharp in many areas. Meticulously struck details are rare on this issue. That said, this coin doesn't quite make the "full" grade on some of the hair curls above Liberty's ear and at the back of the head. Also, the stars are soft, possibly from the die being worn. We are pleased to report that the eagle has excellent detail. It must have been struck from a fresher reverse die to explain this. To sum things up, the numerical condition, the most important aspect, is faithful to the standards for MS60 and obviously all grading criteria were carefully weighed by the grading service.
For one brief period in the middle 19th century, all eyes turned to the Golden State of California and its celebrated Gold Rush. The San Francisco Mint began operations in 1854, producing millions of double eagles over the years. However, in the 1860s, many if not most pieces circulated heavily, which is why frosty Mint States like this piece attract a lot of attention. Pop 10; 46 finer plus the Brother Jonathan coins (PCGS # 8940) .
Estimated Value $4,500 - 5,000.
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| Realized $5,865 |
