1864-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS).

1864-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. AU-58 (PCGS).，This endearing piece exhibits light honey-gold highlights to otherwise rose-orange surfaces. Both sides are boldly to sharply defined throughout with much of the original satin luster remaining. Historically survivors of this 793,660-piece issue were readily obtainable only in VF or EF grades, the occasional AU coming to market at widely spaced intervals. Mint State coins were virtually unknown. During the 1990s, however, the discovery and salvage of the wreck of the <em>S.S. Brother Jonathan</em> significantly altered the high grade rarity of the 1864-S. Lost at sea on January 30, 1865 while trying to return to harbor in Crescent City, California during an abortive trip north to Oregon, the ship sank with more than 1,000 gold coins on board, most of which were Mint State 1865-S double eagles. One hundred and eight examples of the 1864-S were also included in this treasure, many of which have since been certified AU or Mint State. Widely dispersed since entering the market, most of these high grade 1864-S double eagles are tightly held in double eagle date sets or collections focused on shipwreck treasure. Indeed, the present offering represents a fleeting bidding opportunity for the specialist.，Ex S.S. Brother Jonathan 381.，