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Lot 0564 1922-S $20 St. Gaudens NGC MS65

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:100.00 - 150,000.00 USD
Lot 0564 1922-S $20 St. Gaudens NGC MS65
According to the Bowers double eagle reference book, "In modern times many 1922-S double eagles have appeared on the auction scene, in sharp contrast to the vaunted rarity of the variety in early times. Most are in Mint State 60 to 63 and anything finer remains a rarity. While somewhat over 1,000 examples are estimated to exist, the numismatic supply is very small, considering the great demand for Saint-Gaudens double eagles and also the fact that many have disappeared into the woodwork -- into the hands of investors for the most part who are not an active part of the coin collecting fraternity. It seems likely that most of the 1922-S coins were retained in the United States and melted in 1937. However, thousands were exported. This was an ideal situation for the numismatists, as foreign banks held in reserve many coins that would have been destroyed had they remained in America."

So although this is not a rare date when all grades are considered, examples at the gem 65 grade level are extremely rare. This piece boasts about as close to watertight perfection as can be expected, a vibrant pinkish gold gem that would win a prize hand's down in any contest among the various grading services for this level of quality.