The Coronet gold $20 double eagles are some of the most highly sought-after U.S. coins, known for their history and rarity. These coins were minted as part of the Coronet design, which appeared on U.S. gold coins for decades. Two standout lots from the Heritage Auctions event, scheduled for August 13 to 18, have grabbed the attention of numismatists: the 1870-CC $20 double eagle and the 1883 Proof-only $20 double eagle. Both of these coins are special because of their scarcity, historical significance, and the uniqueness of the examples being offered for sale. Let’s explore these two incredible pieces in detail.
| Coin | Year | Mint | Survival Rate | Condition | Grading | Auction Price Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle | 1870 | Carson City | Approx. 65 examples | Extremely Fine 45 | NGC | $384,000 (similar grade) |
| 1883 $20 Double Eagle (Proof-only) | 1883 | Philadelphia | 92 produced (est. 32 remain) | Proof 65 Deep Cameo | PCGS, CAC | $336,000 (similar grade) |
The 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle
Historical Significance
The 1870-CC $20 double eagle is a particularly rare and valuable coin. It was minted at the Carson City Mint, which only produced a small number of these coins—just 3,789 in total. However, none of the coins from this mintage were struck in Mint State condition, which makes any surviving example even more special.
Rarity and Condition
The rarity of this coin is significant. According to numismatic expert Rusty Goe, only about 65 examples of the 1870-CC double eagle survive in any grade, and those that are in better condition are particularly hard to find. The example being offered by Heritage Auctions is graded as Extremely Fine 45 by the Numismatic Guaranty Co. (NGC). It shows light wear, with the reverse appearing sharper than the obverse. The coin has pleasing orange-gold surfaces, with only minor abrasions that are not distracting.
Market Value
The 1870-CC double eagle is extremely valuable, and collectors are often willing to pay a premium for attractive examples. The last similar piece sold by Heritage in April 2021 went for a stunning $384,000. This coin is a prime example of how a rare and historically important piece can demand a significant price, especially when it has the added appeal of being in relatively good condition for its age.
The 1883 Proof-Only $20 Double Eagle
A Coin for Serious Collectors
The 1883 Coronet gold $20 double eagle is another remarkable coin being offered by Heritage Auctions. Unlike most coins, the 1883 $20 double eagle was struck only as a Proof. No regular circulation strikes were made that year, which means that only a limited number of Proof examples exist—just 92 were produced. As a result, this coin is a classic rarity in the series.
Grading and Condition
The 1883 $20 double eagle being offered at Heritage Auctions is graded as Proof 65 Deep Cameo by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and features a green Certified Acceptance Corp. (CAC) sticker, signifying its high quality. This coin has an eye-catching orange peel effect on the fields, with smooth frosty reliefs that stand out. The contrast between the field and relief is stunning, and the coin has some pleasing iridescent toning, which adds to its visual appeal.
Market Value and Demand
Although this coin was previously offered at a 2017 sale with an estimated value of $200,000 to $300,000, it did not meet its reserve. However, since then, the demand for such rare and high-quality Proof gold coins has grown significantly. In January 2021, a similar example of the 1883 $20 double eagle (without the CAC sticker) sold for $336,000 at Heritage Auctions. This shows that collectors are willing to pay a premium for the few available examples of this Proof-only coin, and its value is expected to continue rising.
Conclusion
Both the 1870-CC $20 double eagle and the 1883 Proof-only $20 double eagle are exceptional coins that represent the rarity and historical significance of the Coronet series. The 1870-CC coin is highly valued due to its low survival rate and its Carson City Mint origin, while the 1883 Proof-only coin stands out for its rarity and beautiful condition. As highlighted by Heritage Auctions, these coins are expected to fetch impressive prices at their upcoming auction, attracting serious collectors who understand the value of these rare, historically important pieces. For anyone interested in U.S. numismatics, these two coins are a must-watch.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1870-CC $20 double eagle so valuable?
The 1870-CC $20 double eagle is extremely rare because only 3,789 were minted at the Carson City Mint, and none of these coins are found in Mint State condition. Additionally, only about 65 examples survive in any grade, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
What makes the 1883 $20 double eagle special?
The 1883 $20 double eagle is special because it was minted only as a Proof, with no regular circulation strikes produced that year. With only 92 Proof examples produced, it is a rare and valuable coin in the series.
3. What is the grading of the 1883 Proof-only $20 double eagle in the Heritage auction?
The 1883 Proof-only $20 double eagle being offered in the Heritage auction is graded as Proof 65 Deep Cameo by PCGS, and it also carries a green CAC sticker, which signifies its high quality.
How much did a similar 1870-CC $20 double eagle sell for in the past?
A similar example of the 1870-CC $20 double eagle, graded as Extremely Fine 45, sold for $384,000 at a Heritage Auctions event in April 2021.
Why is there so much interest in these two Coronet $20 double eagles?
Both the 1870-CC and the 1883 Proof-only $20 double eagles are rare coins with significant historical importance. Their low survival rates and exceptional condition make them highly desirable among collectors, which drives up their value at auctions.