RARE NON-SHIPWRECK 1854-S DOUBLE EAGLE

The 1854-S is a numismatically significant issue as the first double eagle struck at the new San Francisco mint. Over 75% of the known examples show matte-like surfaces from exposure to seawater and any pieces which has natural color and choice, non-matte surfaces is rare.

This is a really pleasing example which ranks as one of the nicer EF's of this date I have handled. The color is a warm, natural russet hue with some underlying rose and green tinges. The surfaces are very choice with no deep or significant marks noted and the eye appeal is far above-average for the issue.

The last EF45 1854-S double eagle with natural surfaces to sell at auction was an NGC coin offered as Goldberg 1/14: 1860. It realized $8,225 and, in my opinion, it showed at least five points more wear than the present coin.

I have long championed the scarcity of this date and this, coupled with its historic significance, makes the 1854-S one of the most desirable double eagles from this mint.