1870 $20 MS(PCGS#8957)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

6401

Grade

AU58

Price

8,100

Lot Description

An original and attractive example of this scarce Type II issue. Delicate rose highlights glow from otherwise honey-orange surfaces. Both sides show evidence of light commercial handling but the complexion remains nicely composed. Just 155,150 circulation strike double eagles of this date were produced at the Philadelphia Mint. In 1982 David W. Akers had seen very few examples in any grade approaching Mint State. Many of these were sent overseas in later years, by which time they were well worn. Some 1,500 to 2,250 circulated coins probably exist, with most survivors confined to the VF to EF range. About Uncirculated examples are available but considerable patience is usually required to locate a high end one such as that offered here.