Lot 2181
1854-S. NGC graded AU-55. Well struck and lightly toned. A highly lustrous example for the collector seeking an example of the first San Francisco Mint $20 gold piece. This, and the others in the consignment are fresh, frosty, attractive!
The 1854-S double eagle is fairly scarce. In addition to the treasure coins, several hundred regular examples of the 1854-S $20 gold exist. The first 1854-S double eagle was struck on April 3, 1854. The coin is now in the National Coin Collection in the Smithsonian Institution. It is the only Proof striking of any San Francisco Mint $20 of the design type.
Artifacts from the sunken steamer S.S. Yankee Blade are said to have been salvaged by divers around 1977, and at least 200 to 250 specimens of 1854-S gold $20 coins are believe to have been found (although no accounts of exact figures have been released). As is often true of treasure salvage situations, little factual information is forthcoming; often the more publicity given to a treasure find, the more claimants appear to seek a share (PCGS # 8913) .
Estimated Value $4,800 - 5,000.
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| Realized $11,500 |
