1859-O $20.00 NGC AU50

Only 9,100 were struck and the 1859-O is the fourth rarest double eagle from this mint trailing the 1854-O, 1856-O and 1855-O. There are less than 100 examples known in all grades with around twenty or so in the various AU grades and another three in Uncirculated. For most collectors, the 1859-O (along with the 1860-O) represents one of the biggest expenditures in their Type One double eagle set. But this is a frustrating issue as it is rarely seen with good eye appeal as a result of poor strike and heavy abrasions. And that's why I think that this is a special example. It is better struck than usual for the date with good overall detail at the centers and borders. The surfaces show a few minor, scattered marks but are free of the deep abrasions that are so often seen. The color is a pleasing light, even green gold hue and this rests atop some prooflike flash. Since March 2007, there have been five seperate APR's at Heritage for AU50 examples of this date: three in PCGS holders and two graded by NGC. Prices have ranged from a low of $34,500 to a high of $37,375. An important coin for the advanced New Orleans gold collector.