2487

1912 $20 PR66 NGC. 1912[$20] PR66 NGC.

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
1912 $20 PR66 NGC. 1912[$20] PR66 NGC.
<B>1912<$20> PR66 NGC.</B></I> A mere 74 proofs were struck of the 1912 double eagle. While this number is 25% lower than the previous year's output, the number of survivors is roughly equal for each year. This would indicate that either a higher percentage of the original mintage was saved of the 1912, or fewer 1911 twenties were actually released than the stated mintage. Like other proof twenties, estimates have tended to historically be lower than we believe they are today. Akers estimated that perhaps only 20 to 25 proofs remained. However, we believe that some 40 to 50 individual proof 1912 twenties may exist today. It is noteworthy that we only have records of 27 auction appearances of the 1912 over the past 15 years.<BR> The proof 1912 is generally found with a darker appearance. Not as dark as the 1908, and similar to the 1911. However, the contrast between the 1911 and 1912 in this auction is striking. The 1911 has unusually light yellow-gold coloration, while this piece has the usual "mustard" coloration. Again, like the 1911, the surfaces display a fine granularity over each side and, of course, the striking details are completely brought up as only seen on proof examples of the Saint-Gaudens design.<BR> Technical flaws are virtually non-existent on this magnificent proof. A couple of shiny spots are noted on the obverse, one on Liberty's knee and another on the nose and forehead. A tiny planchet void is also barely noticeable on the upper left (facing) thigh of Liberty. The reverse appears to be flawless. All in all, this is a very impressive example of this rarely offered proof twenty.<BR><I>From The Alexander Collection.</B></I> <BR><BR><B>Importa