1856-S $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle, 17F PCGS AU55 Ex.SS Central America w/box & COA

Here is a precious treasure from the tragic shipwreck of the SS Central America, called the “Ship of Gold.” This piece is housed in the PCGS Gold Foil label, documenting that it is indeed from the Central America. There were only a total of 11 examples of the rare 17F variety found among the wreckage of the Central America. PCGS has graded 6 as AU55 with only 5 finer. MS62 is the finest.

On the popularity of collecting Type 1 Liberty head double eagles (1850-1866), Doug Winter writes, "If I had to pick a single event as the impetus for the surge in interest for these coins, I would go with the discovery of the SS Central America shipwreck. I vividly remember the massive amount of interest these coins generated among collectors and non-collectors alike."

This haunting image of a young woman was found among the wreckage of the SS Central America. Was she on board? Did she survive? Or did a loved one who perished carry her image with him? We will never know.

Winter discusses luster: "This was a well-produced issue and higher grade pieces have excellent luster. This is usually frosty in texture although some semi-prooflike pieces are known."

 And coloration: "The natural coloration on 1856-S double eagles is a rich rose-gold with olive hues. ... it is possible for the collector to easily obtain a high-grade example with great color."

And the all-important eye appeal: "Even before the SSCA [SS Central America] shipwreck coins were uncovered, the level of eye appeal for this date was above average. The 1856-S is well-struck and many coins have good luster and nice color. With little effort, the collector should find a handsome example for his set."