LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2008 Jan. FUN Signature Coin Auction #454  / 

3333

1888-S $20 MS65 NGC

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:48,750.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1888-S $20 MS65 NGC
<B>1888-S $20 MS65 NGC.</B></I> Although the 1888-S is among the most common S-mint double eagle issues from the 1880s, until this wonderful coin was certified, apparently in the last couple of years, no MS65 coin of the issue had ever been graded at either service. Proof is in the Garrett-Guth <I>Gold Encyclopedia: </B></I>"Choice pieces are scarce but offered at auction with regularity. The number of examples that have been graded MS-64 is surprisingly high for the mint and era. There are no known examples in Gem condition." (Written in 2006.)<BR> This, then, is the single finest and only 1888-S at either service in MS65 condition, and a marvelous coin it is. Both sides show swirling cartwheel luster emanating from the peach-gold surfaces. Extensive perusal with a loupe only confirms the initial impression that the coin is remarkably clean and abrasion-free. The coin is fully struck throughout, with no visible weakness. Finally, the eye appeal is enormous. There are many <I>wow </B></I>coins in a Heritage Platinum Night auction, but this incredible piece is certainly high among them.<BR> As enthusiasts of the Liberty Head double eagle coinage are acutely aware, there are many issues in the series for which lower-Mint State coins are plentiful, and higher-grade Uncirculated pieces are either rare or nonexistent. Many collectors, including the present cataloger, also believe that Type Three S-mint double eagles are also quite underrated, as well as lovely, fascinating, and highly collectible. While some of the later issues (1898-S, 1904, 1904-S) may show dozens (or thousands, in the case of the 1904) of Gem pieces certified, an S-mint Type Three from the 1880s or earlier in Gem condition is quite another story. As of this writing NGC has certified exactly <I>nine</B></I> S-mint Type Threes from 1877-S to 1889-S in MS65 condition. <BR><I> </B></I>This coin represents an indispensable acquisition for anyone bold enough to attempt a Registry set of Liberty Head double eagles. (Yes, you are out there--the current NGC Registry shows 59 different sets, just for Type Three!) It also poses a compelling and needed acquisition for a fine set, one unlikely to soon recur. Expect fierce bidding, and act accordingly.<BR><BR><B>Coin Engraver:</B> James B. Longacre<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Coins & Currency (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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