Lot 2222
1864-S. PCGS graded MS-62. Well struck and quite lustrous with plenty of frosty mint luster. A choice example with very few marks and certainly worthy of a MS-63 grade thus our Premium Quality designation. Small S examples are currently in the minority among the 1864-S Double Eagles. Also in the minority are coins that grade at or above the Mint State level, their number totaling fewer than you would think for both mintmark varieties despite shipwreck discoveries. Not only is this Choice BU example the of the Small S Double Eagle varieties, but it is also comfortably within the Condition Census for the issue as a whole.
Striking deficiencies typically plague extant '64-S Double Eagles. That said, we note that the coin in this lot is generally well struck. A few of the obverse star centers, as well as some isolated highpoints on both sides, are a bit softly defined, but not extensively so for the issue. Satin-to-softly frosted reddish pink luster serves to enhance the eye appeal. None of the usual abrasions for this grade, which is a blessing, this coin is worthy of inclusion in the choicest collection of Liberty Double Eagles.
The 1864-S was produced to the extent of 793,660 pieces. Like the 1863-S, the coin's rarity has been altered since the discovery of 108 examples in the S.S. Brother Jonathan treasure. According to Doug Winter and Adam Crum (2002), at least three dozen of those coins grade MS-60 through MS-63 at the two major certification services. As of September 16, 2004, Odyssey has recovered 167 additional pieces from the wreck of the S.S. Republic. Pop 11; 3 finer in 63. Privately purchased from a South American collection and graded several years ago (PCGS # 8942) .
Estimated Value $13,000 - 15,000.
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| Realized $18,975 |
