This sharp AU coin is a very attractive example of the first year of the Type III design. Among all Carson City double eagles, this is among the 10 rarest. Evenly toned in lovely olive-orange patina, both sides are crisply defined in virtually all areas. Considerable luster remains, as one should expect at the AU grade level, and the overall quality is superior for an issue that is typically offered no finer than EF. This AU-53 represents a particularly important bidding opportunity.