1874-CC $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle NGC VF35

Here’s an historic gold piece for the Carson City Mint enthusiast: an 1874-CC Double Eagle. In its assigned grade, it is a more affordable option for the collector. NGC has graded 107 examples as VF35 with 1,466 finer. Collectors Universe gives this issue a price of $5,000.00 in VF35. Imagine including this great coin in your numismatic holdings.

The Carson City Mint, where this great collectible was produced in 1874. Photo: wikipedia.

The Double Eagles that emanated from the Carson City Mint served two basic functions: a circulating instrument of commerce and a storehouse of value. The big $20 gold coins were the easiest way to mint, transport and trade the great amount of gold that had recently been extracted from the earth of the Old West. During the numerous gold rushes in the West, and for many years afterwards, paper money was contemptuously derided.

That attitude made gold coins the accepted method of payment in the Old West. That is why so many Carson City double eagles are found in relatively low grades today in the 21st century. More than most other Liberty head $20 gold pieces, those from the Carson City Mint remain popular and have grown exponentially in value over the years. Among the reasons for this is the romance and history associated with the Old West, the Comstock Lode, and the Carson City Mint.