1856-S $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle PCGS AU58 (CAC)

Here's a great type coin to add to your numismatic holdings. PCGS has awarded 122 examples the grade of AU58 with 94 finer. In CAC, there are 37 in AU58 with 19 finer. This is not a shipwreck coin. Below Doug Winter discusses attributes of this well-produced issue.

Gold specialist Doug Winter writes, "The strike is similar to that seen on other San Francisco double eagles of this era. The obverse is sharp overall but may show weakness on the curls around the face, and especially on the curl below her ear. The hair at the top of the head is often weak as well. The obverse stars are sharp and often have full radial lines while the denticles are clearly separated. The reverse can show weakness at the center but it is well-defined overall. On some, there is minor weakness on the denticles."

The first San Francisco Mint, where this beauty was produced in 1856.

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."