1231

Lot 1231 - 1857-S $20 Liberty SS Central America PCGS MS64

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money Start Price:5,500.00 USD Estimated At:11,000.00 - 12,500.00 USD
Lot 1231 - 1857-S $20 Liberty SS Central America PCGS MS64
1857-S $20 Liberty. The 1857-S offered here is similar to others in the group in that it has a bold strike and is gorgeous. The difference is that the grade change from the "ultra" specimens isn't as much aesthetically as the price levels would suggest, such high-end pieces being in the minority. Here, indeed is a wonderful numismatic treasure in the technical sense, but also in the sense of history and tradition.

More than 5,400 Mint State 1857-S double eagles were lost in the wreck of the S.S. Central America in a hurricane on September 12, 1857. These and other numismatic items electrified the numismatic community when the discovery of their existence was announced. In short order, all were sold, realizing per reports, in excess of $100 million.

Prior to the treasure find, the 1857-S was considered to be a plentiful coin in circulated grades from Very Fine to About Uncirculated, but elusive in Mint State, most of the latter being in baggy low-end ranges. Now available on the secondary market are choice and gem coins of fresh, glittering appearance. Accordingly, this one coin is an ideal candidate for a Type Set. A storied coin in American history. (#8922)