1856-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS). CAC.Pleasing frosty surfaces retain nearly full mint luster. Razor sharp striking detail to virtually all design elements also points to limited time spent in active circulation. Bathed in light honey-rose patina with a remarkably smooth appearance for the assigned grade, this is one of the nicest 1856-S double eagles for the grade that we have ever had the privilege of bringing to auction. The mintage for this early San Francisco Mint issue is 1,189,750 pieces, up more than 300,000 coins from the previous year. Most Mint State 1856-S double eagles encountered in todays market are from the <em>S.S. Central Americ</em>a shipwreck, which treasure included 1,085 examples, hundreds of which are Uncirculated. Circulated survivors number 1,750 to 2,500 coins (per Bowers, 2004), Choice AUs such as this also enjoying strong demand for high grade type and date purposes.From the Fairmont Collection.
