Heritage Auctions is showcasing two incredible rare gold coins at the American Numismatic Association (ANA) Platinum Night, which will take place from August 13 to August 18. This auction, held at Heritage’s Dallas headquarters, will include some remarkable coins that collectors and coin enthusiasts won’t want to miss. The ANA World’s Fair of Money in Chicago, from August 6 to 10, will also have a preview of these coins.
| Coin Type | Year | Minting Location | Rarity & Survival Rate | Grading/Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle | 1870 | Carson City Mint | ~65 surviving examples | Numismatic Guaranty Co. (XF45) | $384,000 (previous sale) |
| 1883 Proof-Only $20 Double Eagle | 1883 | Philadelphia Mint | ~32 surviving examples | PCGS Proof 65 Deep Cameo (with CAC) | $200,000 – $300,000 (previous estimate) |
Two Rare Gold Coins Stealing the Show
Heritage Auctions is spotlighting two special $20 gold coins known as “double eagles.” These coins, a unique part of U.S. coin history, are rare and highly valued. Here’s a closer look at the two coins that are expected to draw attention.
1. The 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle
The 1870-CC $20 gold double eagle is a rare coin from the Carson City Mint in Nevada. This coin was part of a small mintage of only 3,789, and no examples in “Mint State” (meaning completely untouched) condition exist today. In his book The Confident Carson City Collector, Rusty Goe estimates that only about 65 of these coins have survived. The example up for auction is graded “Extremely Fine” (EF45) by the Numismatic Guaranty Co., showing slight wear but still in great condition with an attractive orange-gold color.
Collectors value these coins highly because of their rarity and historical connection to the first batch of $20 coins minted at the Carson City facility in 1870. Heritage Auctions even noted that this example is especially attractive, without the heavy scratches or scrapes that many similar coins have.
2. The Proof-Only 1883 $20 Double Eagle
The second coin, an 1883 $20 double eagle, is unique because it was made only for collectors as a “Proof” coin. Only 92 of these were struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1883, and coin experts estimate that only 32 survive today. This coin, graded “Proof 65 Deep Cameo” by the Professional Coin Grading Service, also has the green CAC (Certified Acceptance Corp.) sticker, which is a mark of quality.
This coin was previously offered in a 2017 auction by Legend Rare Coin Auctions, estimated at $200,000 to $300,000. Although it didn’t sell then, the coin is still highly prized for its quality and rarity. The coin has an eye-catching “orange peel effect,” which adds to its beauty.
Collectors and Historical Significance
For coin collectors, these coins represent significant pieces of U.S. history. Rusty Goe’s writing highlights the sense of pride that went into making the first Carson City coins. He encourages collectors to appreciate these rare coins not just for their monetary value but for their history and craftsmanship.
The 1883 coin, while never intended for everyday use, has managed to survive despite its low production. Experts wonder why so few examples exist today, considering they were originally sold at just 25 cents above face value. Some speculate that collectors spent them, expecting their value to rise over time.
FAQs
1. What is a Double Eagle coin?
A Double Eagle is a gold coin with a value of $20. It was first issued by the United States Mint in 1849 and is known for its large size and design featuring Lady Liberty and an eagle.
2. Why is the 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle so rare?
The 1870-CC $20 Double Eagle is rare because only 3,789 coins were minted, and very few of them survived in good condition. Additionally, no coins from this mintage are known to exist in “Mint State” (completely untouched) condition.
3. What does “Proof-Only” mean in reference to the 1883 $20 Double Eagle?
“Proof-Only” means that this coin was made only for collectors as part of a special series of high-quality coins. Unlike regular coins meant for circulation, proof coins are struck with more care and have a shiny, smooth appearance.
4. How do coin grades affect their value?
The grade of a coin, such as “Extremely Fine” or “Proof 65 Deep Cameo,” indicates its condition. Coins in better condition (fewer scratches or wear) are more valuable to collectors. Higher-grade coins are rarer and command higher prices.
5. Why are these specific coins being sold at Heritage Auctions?
Heritage Auctions is a leading auction house specializing in rare coins, and the American Numismatic Association’s Platinum Night auction is a major event for collectors. These two coins— the 1870-CC and 1883 Proof-Only $20 Double Eagles—are exceptional due to their rarity, historical significance, and condition.