1858-O Liberty Head Double Eagle. Winter-3. AU-58 (PCGS). CAC.
Offered is one of the two highest graded 1858-O double eagles that have met with strict CAC approval. Beautiful, fully original surfaces are incredibly lustrous for a survivor of this issue. The strike is impressively sharp throughout and the detail is as close to full as one could expect for this often poorly produced issue. This is a premium quality example in all regards that is worthy of the strongest bids. While not in the same league as the 1854-O and 1856-O, the 1858-O is elusive in all grades and ranks among the rarer double eagles from the New Orleans Mint. According to Douglas Winter (2020), survivors of this 35,250-piece mintage number only 225 to 275 coins in all grades. Q. David Bowers' 2004 estimate is a bit more conservative, with no more than 150 pieces extant. Mint State coins are particularly rare and can be counted on one or two hands. With its undeniable originality and superior eye appeal, the present example is among the finest that we have ever had the privilege of bringing to auction. A find for the advanced double eagle or Southern gold collector that is worthy of the strongest bids.
PCGS# 8924. NGC ID: 2698.
PCGS Population: 15; 9 finer, seven of which are Mint State (MS-62 finest). CAC Population: 2; 0.
From the Fairmont Collection - JBR Set.