In August, Heritage Auctions will feature two extraordinary Coronet gold $20 double eagles during its Platinum Night auctions. As an American Numismatic Association (ANA) Event Auctioneer Partner, Heritage is hosting the sale at its Dallas headquarters, with coin viewing available at the ANA World’s Fair of Money in metropolitan Chicago from August 6 to 10. These two coins are among the auction highlights and represent historical pieces of significant rarity and collector value.
| Coin | Year | Mint | Number of Coins Minted | Survival Estimate | Grade/Condition | Previous Auction Sales | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle | 1870 | Carson City Mint | 3,789 | <65 (all grades) | Numismatic Guaranty Co. Extremely Fine 45 | $384,000 (April 2021) | First issue from Carson City, rare Mint State examples, attractive eye appeal |
| 1883 Gold $20 Double Eagle | 1883 | Philadelphia Mint (Proof-only) | 92 Proofs | 32 (surviving examples) | Proof 65 Deep Cameo by Professional Coin Grading Service | $336,000 (January 2021) | Proof-only issue, high contrast between relief and background, iridescent toning |
The 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle: A Rare Find
The 1870-CC $20 double eagle is one of the rarest coins from the Carson City Mint. With only 3,789 coins originally minted, no example is known to survive in Mint State condition. Experts estimate that only about 65 examples exist in all grades today. The Numismatic Guaranty Co. (NGC) has graded the specimen in this auction as Extremely Fine 45 (XF 45). Its attractive orange-gold surface, combined with typical abrasions for the grade, makes it a standout for collectors.
Collectors highly value the 1870-CC double eagle for its historical significance as the first $20 gold piece struck at the Carson City Mint. Rusty Goe, in his book The Confident Carson City Collector, recommends collectors consider a premium for examples with good eye appeal, despite the typical heavy abrasions found on many surviving pieces. This particular coin’s overall presentation makes it an exceptional addition for collectors.
The Proof-Only 1883 Gold $20 Double Eagle: A Classic Rarity
Another highlight of the auction is an 1883 Coronet gold $20 double eagle, notable as a Proof-only issue. The Philadelphia Mint struck only 92 Proofs to satisfy collectors that year, and only about 32 examples are estimated to survive today. The Proof 65 Deep Cameo specimen from Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) includes a Certified Acceptance Corp. (CAC) green sticker, emphasizing its quality and rarity.
In 2017, Legend Rare Coin Auctions offered this coin with an estimated value between $200,000 and $300,000. Its distinct “orange peel” effect in the fields and the smooth, frosty reliefs make it visually striking. This example has not been conserved, preserving its original iridescent toning, which adds to its desirability. As the fifth-finest known, the Proof 65 Deep Cameo coin is a true treasure in the numismatic world.
Key Points to Remember
- Rarity: Both the 1870-CC and 1883 double eagles are rare, with limited numbers surviving.
- Condition: The 1870-CC XF 45 example and the 1883 Proof 65 Deep Cameo are in superb condition.
- Historical Significance: Each coin has a unique backstory linked to the history of American coin minting.
- Collector Appeal: High-grade coins with distinctive features, like the orange peel effect, attract significant interest from collectors.
Concluding Note
These two Coronet gold double eagles represent extraordinary pieces of U.S. coinage history. Their rarity, condition, and historical value make them highly sought-after items for serious collectors, and Heritage Auctions’ August sale offers a unique opportunity for coin enthusiasts to own these magnificent pieces.
FAQs
1. What is a Coronet gold $20 double eagle?
A Coronet gold $20 double eagle is a U.S. gold coin that was first issued in the 19th century. The “Coronet” refers to the design of Lady Liberty’s head on the obverse of the coin. The “$20” refers to its face value, and “double eagle” is the term used for a coin with that value, made of gold. These coins were minted to be used in everyday commerce but are now considered highly collectible due to their rarity and historical significance.
2. Why is the 1870-CC $20 double eagle so rare?
The 1870-CC $20 double eagle is rare because only a small number were ever minted, and none of them survived in Mint State condition. Out of the original mintage of 3,789 coins, it’s estimated that fewer than 65 examples still exist, making this coin a sought-after piece among collectors.
3. What does “Proof-only” mean for the 1883 gold $20 double eagle?
“Proof-only” means that the 1883 gold $20 double eagle was not released for circulation. Instead, it was struck specifically for collectors, with a very limited number of coins produced. In this case, only 92 Proofs were made, and it is estimated that only 32 examples survive today.
4. What is the significance of the “Deep Cameo” grade?
The “Deep Cameo” grade refers to the coin’s appearance, particularly the contrast between the frosty relief of the design and the smooth, mirrored background. A coin graded as Proof 65 Deep Cameo indicates high-quality details and impressive eye appeal, making it more valuable to collectors.
5. Why are these double eagles so valuable?
The value of these double eagles comes from their rarity, historical importance, and condition. The 1870-CC is the first $20 coin struck at the Carson City Mint, and the 1883 is a Proof-only issue with very few surviving examples. Their unique features and limited supply make them highly desirable for numismatic collectors.