1856-S $20 MS(PCGS#8919)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3161

Grade

MS65

Price

38,400

Lot Description

An incredible display of brisk cartwheel luster and vivid orange-gold color illuminate the satiny surfaces of this beautiful double eagle. Fully struck and visually appealing, both sides are free of even the most trivial blemishes and are easily worthy of the assigned grade.<p>Though nearly 1.2 million examples of this issue were produced, survivors are surprisingly scarce in Mint State. The recovery of 1,085 examples from the wreck of the S.S. <em>Central America</em> somewhat increased availability, though fewer than 500 pieces likely exist across all Uncirculated grades, and the vast majority of these have been certified no finer than MS-64. In PCGS MS-65 this particular example is one of the very finest known - an exquisite condition rarity that will appeal to advanced double eagle collectors, California Gold Rush enthusiasts, and those with an interest in shipwreck treasure. Watch this one go!