1913-S Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. MS-65 (NGC). A beautiful Gem example that has been unavailable to collectors since 1996. This piece showcases pleasing apricot hues with a dusting of original patina across both sides. The surfaces are smooth and exhibit a lovely matte-like texture in the fields. A small mint-made planchet flaw on the sun below IN of IN GOD WE TRUST serves as a convenient pedigree marker. This double eagle sits at the very top of the NGC Census and none have been graded finer. Produced to the extent of just 34,000 pieces, the 1913-S is one of the most eagerly sought Saint-Gaudens double eagles in all Mint State grades. It is also among the scarcer issues of the type, ranking 21st of 53 issues in the series. About 3,00 Uncirculated examples are thought to survive for todays collectors, but the vast majority are in grades of MS-63 and lower. At the Gem level, this becomes a significant rarity with fewer than 40 coins known. The present MS-65 (NGC) is among the very finest survivors and is surely destined for another legendary collection of world-class rarities. From the Dr. Paul and Rosalie Zito Collection. Acquired May 2, 1996.
