1863 $20 MS(PCGS#8939)

Summer 2025 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3377

Grade

MS62

Price

36,000

Lot Description

This gorgeous Mint State example of a low mintage rarity exhibits a subtle prooflike reflectivity on both sides. The aesthetics are pleasing and transcend what is commonly encountered at this grade level. The sharpness is delightful throughout and is particularly impressive at the central design elements on the reverse. Liberty's portrait is bold. There is evidence of die polishing in the recessed areas on both sides, the obverse with a scattering of light marks that do little more than define the grade. Vivid rose-gold color further enhances already strong eye appeal.<p>While the 1863 was produced in somewhat greater numbers than the 1862, it still had a low mintage of just 142,790 circulation strikes. It is the third rarest Type I double eagle from the Philadelphia Mint, with only the 1853/'2' and 1862 more difficult to obtain in all grades. With so few examples included in repatriations from European banks, and none discovered as part of the S.S. <em>Brother Jonathan</em> treasure, the 1863 remains a formidable rarity in Mint State. Even the S.S. <em>Republic</em> treasure (the source of the offered coin) included fewer than 20 Uncirculated examples of this issue. This beautiful piece ranks among the finest known and would serve as a highlight in a world class cabinet.