As with the similarly dated half eagle, the 1867-S $10.00 is rarer than its mintage would suggest. There were 9,000 struck and my best estimate is that around 50-60 are known with most in the VF-EF range. There are not likely more than 10 known in AU and nearly all have been dipped and/or show major abrasions from hard circulation.

This is among the more original examples of this date which I can recall having seen. It shows a somewhat “Euro” appearance with dark, rich green gold color accentuated by dirt on the relief areas and some rose-gold in the devices. There are a few scrapes in the left obverse field which do not detract; both sides retain a good amount of luster and have better than expected overall detail. If you collect Ten Libs, you know how hard it is to find these Reconstruction Era San Francisco issues with good eye appeal and original surfaces.

Since the beginning of 2006, there have been just four AU53′s, all slabbed by NGC, which have sold at auction. The highest price for one of these is $9,983, set in June 2013.

After years of neglect, coins such as this have become extremely popular. This is very likely the finest available 1867-S eagle.

Ex Heritage 6/13: 4806, where it realized $9,988.