1876-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. MS-63 (PCGS).Better preserved than the typical Mint State 1876-S double eagle encountered in todays market, this is a predominantly smooth Choice example with a full endowment of frosty luster. Crisply impressed with sharp definition throughout, handsome rose-gold patina is also worthy of praise. The mintage for this plentiful San Francisco Mint issue is 1,597,000 pieces, up more than 250,000 pieces from the previous years total at the West Coast facility. Face value amounted to $31,940,000. Many were exported, beginning in a significant way in 1879. We estimate a Mint State population for the 1876-S of 2,000 to 3,000 pieces, if not more. Most of these are at MS-60 to MS-61, though MS-62 pieces can be found with a modicum of patience. Beginning at the MS-63 level, offered here, your chances of obtaining a specimen thin dramatically despite the certified population reports. A scarce coin in an absolute sense, and quite rare from a market availability standpoint, this impressive piece represents a significant find for the quality conscious gold enthusiast.From the Fairmont Collection.
