1924-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-65 (NGC).This is a delightful Gem with full mint bloom to rose-orange surfaces. The focal devices are sharply defined, and the surfaces are uncommonly smooth in overall appearance for a survivor of this scarce key date issue. Evidence of die wear is noted around the peripheries on both sides, and it takes the form of a raised ridge just inside the borders. A beveled rim and scattered die polish lines on the reverse are also common attributes in survivors of this issue. The 1924-S is one of several mintmarked double eagles from the Roaring Twenties that was exported in limited quantities, most of the 2,927,500 pieces struck retained in federal vaults until destroyed through melting in 1937. During the middle decades of the 20th century this issue was regarded as a major numismatic rarity, but today several hundred examples are known, most repatriated from European and other bank holdings. Superior to most survivors, this impressive piece combines absolute scarcity with condition rarity and is sure to see spirited bidding among advanced double eagle enthusiasts.
