1859 Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-50 (PCGS).

1859 Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-50 (PCGS).，Although its reported mintage of 43,597 pieces clearly conveys the fact that the 1859 double eagle is a scarce coin, just exactly how scarce it is, is best appreciated by experts in the field. Doug Winter notes that while it has the second-lowest mintage of any Type I Philadelphia double eagle, and in AU and Mint States grades is the rarest regular issue. Earlier, David Akers confessed that it was one of his "pet date" double eagles because of its unappreciated rarity, and went on to say that "in any grade, the 1859 must be considered rare." Both Winter and Akers acknowledge that this issue almost universally comes very heavily bagmarked, and suggest that the collector seeking near perfect examples for their collection will simply have to adjust their standards and accept slightly less. The present piece transcends this notion and delivers a relatively smooth complexion, with only minimal shallow marks visible under a glass. The protected regions harbor considerable satiny luster, corroborating this overall superior preservation. Deep amber encrustation at the back of Libertys hair attests to the originality of this piece, accenting otherwise lovely medium-gold coloration. A truly premium example for Liberty gold enthusiasts.，，