1862-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS).Plenty of luster remains on both sides of this scarce and inviting double eagle. Bathed in warm rose-gold patina, as well, the surfaces are overall sharply defined with an uncommonly smooth appearance for the assigned grade. Records state that 854,173 double eagles were struck in the San Francisco Mint during 1862, or $17,083,460 in face value. These circulated on the West Coast in an era in which they were not seen in commerce in the East or Midwest. Only 2,600 to 3,600 coins are estimated to exist in all grades, which amounts to less than 1/2 of 1% of the mintage. The vast majority of survivors are circulated to one degree or another, this being one of the nicest that we have handled in recent sales. With Mint State coins highly elusive, this attractive Choice AU is sure to catch the eye of astute double eagle collectors.
