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1861-S $20 Paquet XF45 NGC. This reverse die lett

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:33,400.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1861-S $20 Paquet XF45 NGC. This reverse die lett
<B>1861-S<$20> Paquet XF45 NGC.</B></I> This reverse die lettering was modified by assistant mint engraver Anthony C. Paquet. One die with these taller reverse letters was shipped to the San Francisco Mint in early 1861 and used to strike 19,250 coins. The Philadelphia Mint also struck examples using this new modified reverse style, but it was noticed that the rim was much too thin, therefore exposing the devices of the coin to take the brunt of wear and circulation marks. Normally, the higher and thicker rims protected the central devices from wear and circulation, allowing the coin to last through many years of circulation. The Philadelphia Mint wired the San Francisco Mint to tell them not to use this reverse die, but once the coins were struck, it was decided to release them into circulation. Most were melted during the normal course of affairs but enough have turned up to make it available for a price to collectors. This particular coin has even yellow-gold color and average surfaces for the grade and we note traces of luster in the protected areas. There are a few nicks on Liberty's face and neck, but this coin remains more attractive than often encountered for this very popular issue.