1860-O Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-50 (PCGS). Secure Holder.An exceptionally well preserved example of this leading rarity in the New Orleans Mint double eagle series. Vivid orange-gold patina blankets both sides, the surfaces of which reveal considerable prooflike reflectivity around the devices as the coin rotates under a light. Central striking detail is sharp, the peripheries soft over isolated features, yet all discernible. The quality of manufacture is commensurate with the issue, all known survivors of which are softly defined in at least a few areas. In fact, the detail to Libertys hair is sharper here than on most examples of this issue that we have handled over the years. Thoroughly appealing, this coin is seemingly earmarked for inclusion in an advanced Southern gold collection or double eagle cabinet.The 1860-O, with a paltry mintage of 6,600 pieces, is one of the most challenging Liberty Head double eagles from this coinage facility to locate in todays market. Survivors are highly elusive in all grades, Doug Winter (2006) accounting for just 85 to 95 pieces while Q. David Bowers (2004) offers a more expansive estimate of 60 to 90 coins extant. The majority of examples are confined to VF and EF grades, AUs rare and Mint State coins virtually noncollectable given that only two have been certified to date (both at NGC, see below). A definite highlight of the extensive double eagle offerings in this sale.From the Magnolia Collection.
