1890-CC $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle PCGS MS62

With its mintage of 91,209, this is not a common coin to locate in mint state grades. Plus, its Carson City origins makes this issue greatly desired both by specialists and enthusiasts of the Old West. PCGS has graded 89 as MS62 with only 12 finer. PCGS has graded none finer than MS63+. Collectors Universe gives this issue a price of $25,000 in MS62. The Double Eagles struck at 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 Nevada.

The Carson City Mint, where this great collectible was struck in 1890. Photo: wikipedia.

Heritage Auctions writes, "As with many other Liberty double eagle issues, an ample number of 1890-CC twenty dollar gold pieces were shipped in bags from the United States to overseas banks shortly after minting, eventually to find their way home many years later. And, as should be expected from large gold coins that were carelessly transported, most of the repatriated coins have surfaces marred with bagmarks." However, the example offered by AUCM does not have "surfaces marred with bagmarks" ! Take a close look at the photos of this beautiful specimen.