1861-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. MS-61 (PCGS).Lustrous satin surfaces are boldly to sharply defined in all but a few isolated areas. Light rose-gold patina blankets both sides, the surfaces of which are uncommonly smooth in hand for the assigned grade. Mint records indicate that 768,000 double eagles were coined at the San Francisco facility in 1861, equal to $15,360,000 in face value. Recovered treasure ship finds have yielded the majority of the estimated 40 to 55 Mint State survivors, most of which have already been snatched up by astute collectors and are solidly off the market as part of tightly held collections. When one accounts for undesirable coins that are given an MS-60 technical grade because they are truly Uncirculated, but are plagued by spots, very large cuts, or an excessive number of bagmarks, the rarity and desirability of this premium quality MS-61 should be obvious to all bidders. A fleeting opportunity in todays market that is worthy of serious consideration.PCGS Population: 16; 8 finer (MS-63 finest).From the Fairmont Collection.
