Two Liberty Head gold eagles, each a significant condition rarity, will cross the block in our Spring 2023 Rarities Night Session. On offer are lot 3241, an 1853 graded MS-64 by PCGS, and lot 3245, an 1871-S graded AU-55 by PCGS and which also earned a CAC sticker. We expect these offerings to appeal to advanced gold specialists and, more than likely, end up in high-quality cabinets.
Despite their relatively high mintage (201,253), 1853 eagles are not common, especially in higher grades. Any coin in the About Uncirculated range and higher is scarce-to-rare, making our example, certified MS-64 by PCGS a true prize. It is tied for second finest-known with two other examples reported in PCGS’ Population Report. The only finer reported grading event is for a coin in MS-64+.
Our cataloger wrote: “With original reddish-orange surfaces that are expertly preserved and highly attractive, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the absolute finest 1853 Liberty Head eagles certified by PCGS. Sharply struck with full, intense, satiny mint luster.”
Gold coins produced at the San Francisco Mint in the mid-to-late 1860s and early-to-mid 1870s are all scarce, and they circulated extensively during and after the Civil War. The 1871-S has a mintage of just 16,500 pieces, of which not a single example is known in Mint State. This naturally puts pressure on coins in the About Uncirculated range. The AU-55 grade assigned to the example we’re offering in Rarities Night places it solidly in the upper tier of PCGS’ Population Report; only three finer grading events are recorded along with six others for coins in AU-55. Our catalog describes the coin as “intensely lustrous with subtle semi-reflective qualities to an otherwise frosty finish. Beautiful honey-orange color is seen throughout with a bold to sharp strike and outstanding eye appeal.”
These notable condition rarities will appeal to advanced gold specialists, and we anticipate both will attract strong bidding. To view all lots in our Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles 2023 Spring Expo visit StacksBowers.com. For more information about the sale or to inquire about consigning to a future event call 800-458-4646 or email Info@StacksBowers.com
