1855-O $20 MS(PCGS#8915)

December 2025 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part I

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

20022

Grade

XF40

Price

26,400

Lot Description

A noteworthy example of this key date in the challenging New Orleans Mint double eagle series. The color is a deep, rich honey-gold with intermingled olive and lighter pinkish-rose highlights. Frosty luster remains in the protected areas around and among the design elements, contrasting with the somewhat subdued motifs and fields where light friction and wispy marks from handling have gathered. While closer inspection with a loupe reveals some ancient surface crust within the coronet, tresses of Liberty's hair, and some of the eagle's plumage, even such scrutiny fails to yield a mark worthy of individual attention. Overall detail is bold for an EF example of this issue, enhancing both the visual appeal and desirability of this important piece.<p>With just 8,000 coins produced and the commercial use taking its toll, the 1855-O is regarded as a leading rarity among New Orleans Mint double eagles. In fact, it is the third rarest O-Mint twenty after only the legendary 1854-O and 1856-O. The extant population of the 1855-O is fewer than 100 coins in all grades, with Doug Winter (2025) providing a more precise estimate of 80 to 90 pieces. Most survivors grade VF to EF, as here. Opportunities to acquire an 1855-O of even marginal quality are few and far between; the chance to obtain an Extremely Fine example as pleasing as this is an even rarer occurrence. Advanced double eagle and collectors of Southern gold coins are advised to pay special attention to this offering and bid accordingly.