1871-S Liberty Head Eagle. AU-55 (PCGS). CAC.One of numerous classic gold offerings in this sale that very likely represents a once-in-a-lifetime bidding opportunity for the advanced Liberty Head eagle collector. This extraordinary 1871-S is intensely lustrous with subtle semi-reflective qualities to an otherwise frosty finish. Beautiful honey-orange color is seen throughout with a bold to sharp strike and outstanding eye appeal.<p>Relatively generous by the standards of the era, a mintage of 16,500 coins belies the true rarity of the 1871-S. Attrition through circulation was high and, like many San Francisco Mint eagles from the Civil War and Reconstruction eras, the 1871-S is unknown in Mint State. Of the 100 or so coins believed extant (per <em>PCGS CoinFacts</em>), well worn or impaired examples are the norm. As one of very few AU-55s certified, the offered coin is tied for CC#3 for the issue behind a small number of AU-55+ and AU-58 grading events listed at PCGS and/or NGC. It is an extremely important offering sure to appeal to astute bidders.PCGS# 8662. NGC ID: 264Y.PCGS Population: 7; 3 finer (AU-58 finest). There are also no Mint State coins listed at NGC.
