1881-CC $10 Liberty Head Eagle PCGS XF45 (CAC)

NEW LOWER PRICE (12/15)

Here is the only Carson City $10 Liberty Head eagle from the 1880s that is not a rarity. While no Carson City gold issue can be called 'common,' the 1881-CC is one that comes close. It has a mintage of 24,015, which is not large. However, when compared to other issues of that decade, that mintage could be considered ‘plentiful.’

PCGS has graded 68 as XF45 with 221 finer. Collector’s Universe prices this issue at $5,000.00 in XF45. In CAC, there are 9 in XF45 with 67 finer. CAC gives this issue a price of $5,500.00 in XF45.

The price is quite reasonable for a Carson City gold issue. You will save thousands when you purchase an XF45 1881-CC vs. other XF45 1880s tens from the “CC” Mint. This piece has a lot going for it. It's an attractive example that circulated in the Old West. And circulated pieces give collectors the reality of gold “CC” coinage: they were an object of commerce, not a collectible, when struck. Plus, it has that desirable and valuable green CAC sticker.  

The Carson City Mint, where this piece was struck in 1881. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.