1866 $20 Motto MS(PCGS#8949)

1866 $20 Motto MS (PCGS#8949)

Spring 2023 U.S. Coins Auction

Lot Description: 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle. MS-60 (PCGS). A fully lustrous example with remarkably pristine surfaces for a the historically significant and eagerly sought 1866 double eagle. Undeniably original in preservation, as well, with solid striking detail and plenty of eye appeal. The first year of the Type II design with the addition of the motto IN GOD WE TRUST on the reverse, the post-Civil War economy was still quite tenuous when the Philadelphia Mint struck 698,745 double eagles in 1866. The entire issue entered commercial channels with little fanfare and were subject to hoarding or were used for overseas payments where specie was the preferred medium of exchange. Even though a few thousand survivors are thought extant, almost all are in lower circulated grade levels. Popular as the first year issue for the Motto type, here is a desirable and scarce Mint State offering for the double eagle connoisseur. Provenance: From the Fairmont Collection - CAG Set. To view all items From the Fairmont Collection - CAG Set click here. PCGS# 8949. NGC ID: 269X. Click here for certification details from PCGS. Image with the PCGS TrueView logo is obtained from and is subject to a license agreement with Collectors Universe, Inc. and its divisions PCGS and PSA.