1874-S Liberty Head Eagle. AU-53 (PCGS). CAC.Light honey-gold patina blends with appreciable mint luster on both sides of this sharply defined and highly significant ten-dollar gold eagle. Scarce in an absolute sense, the 1874-S belongs to the highly exclusive group of leading U.S. Mint condition rarities that are unknown in any Uncirculated grade. Just 10,000 pieces were produced at a time when gold coins enjoyed strong commercial demand on the West Coast and, indeed, the rigors of circulation claimed the vast majority of examples. Even circulated coins in VF and EF are scarce. With Mint State pieces unknown, the handful of rare AU survivors represent the finest obtainable grades for this elusive and challenging issue. Sure to see spirited competition at auction.From the Fairmont Collection.
