Lot 1331
1850. NGC graded AU-58. Some 1850 First Year Double Eagles in About Uncirculated condition show only faint luster, but this one in AU58 definitely shows that its boat came in, for it harbors a lot of nice mint frost over both sides. Only the upper design areas on Liberty and the eagle show friction from its short journey into circulation. Typically well struck for the issue, save perhaps for some lightness on most stars. The stars, however, display complete radials. There are the usual light surface marks (we emphasize light), with a distinguishing chattermark to the right of the date. All in all an historic coin from America’s formative years.
Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features the compact head of Liberty, her hair in a bun at the back. She wears a coronet inscribed LIBERTY. Thirteen stars surround, and the date is below. The motif is similar to the one used on the gold dollars of 1849-1854, which were also designed by Longacre.
The reverse has a new motif not used elsewhere on American coinage. It consists of an eagle with a squared-off shield on the breast, holding an olive branch and arrows, with ornaments to the left and right, stars and rays above, with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, TWENTY D. surrounding. Pop 157; 76 finer at NGC. (PCGS # 8902) .
Estimated Value $7,000 - 7,500.
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| Realized $9,106 |
