1899 Liberty Head Double Eagle. MS-65 (PCGS).An outstanding condition rarity for both the type and issue, this enchanting Gem would fit comfortably into the finest gold cabinet. Fully frosted in finish with a razor sharp strike, the surfaces are expectably smooth for the assigned grade. Vivid rose-gold patina blankets both sides and provides memorable eye appeal. The double eagle presses in Philadelphia turned out 1,669,300 circulation strikes in 1899, nearly 1.5 million more than in the previous year. Face value amounted to $33,386,000. Much of the mintage was used in overseas business and banking transactions. By this time paper money was used domestically in preference to gold coins except in certain areas of the West. With 25,000 to 45,000 or more Uncirculated examples available to todays collectors the 1899 is obviously a plentiful issue, especially in the MS-60 to MS-63 grade range. Much of the known Mint State population has returned to the United States in the past several decades. As an expertly preserved and solidly graded MS-65, the coin offered here ranks among the finest certified and is undeniably rare from a condition standpoint.PCGS Population: 42; with a single MS-66 finer.From the Fairmont Collection.
