1853 $20 MS(PCGS#8908)

1853 $20 MS (PCGS#8908)

The November 2011 Baltimore Auction

Lot Description: 1853 Liberty Double Eagle. MS-63 (PCGS). A frosty medium gold specimen with lively cartwheel luster and pale olive highlights. Undeniably choice for the grade with eye appeal that conveys a slightly finer grade at first glance. Indeed, diligent magnified scrutiny reveals no significant marks worthy of mention here. A rarity in Choice Mint State, this despite its sizeable mintage of more than 1.2 million pieces. The Bowers reference on the series notes: ""With a mintage on the long side of the million mark, this is the year for California gold production. The 1853 is easily available in the usual VF and EF grades. However, while some Mint State coins exist, they are mostly in lower levels. Nothing significant has turned up in a treasure hoard, either."" A full grading point finer than the best example Harry W. Bass, Jr. was able to obtain (Bass II, October 1999:1695). Sharply struck with all of Longacre's intended details crisp and bold. A gorgeous Type I double eagle if ever there was one.