1851-O Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-50 (NGC).This is an endearing example that is finer than most 1851-O double eagles available in todays market. Lustrous surfaces retain ample evidence of a satin to semi-prooflike finish from the dies. Deep olive undertones backlight dominant medium gold patina. Well struck for an early New Orleans Mint gold coin with plenty of bold detail remaining, this coin is equally well suited for inclusion in an advanced double eagle set or mintmarked gold type collection. The 1851-O barely edges out the 1852-O to rank as the most readily obtainable New Orleans Mint double eagle. This issue is still scarce compared to early date Philadelphia Mint issues in the Liberty Head series such as the 1851 and 1852. The 1851-O is also a conditionally challenging issue and, among the 750 or so coins believed extant, most are well worn and grade no finer than Choice EF. As a solidly graded, aesthetically pleasing AU-50, this handsome piece is sure to catch the eye of astute buyers.
