1857-S $20 Liberty Gold Double Eagle MS-65 PCGS

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In 1857, the San Francisco Mint struck 970,500 gold double eagles, each carrying a face value of twenty dollars. These impressive pieces were crafted from 0.900 fine gold, containing 0.9675 troy ounces of the precious metal. Representing a vital era of American coinage, this specific issue features the distinctive 'S' mint mark, indicating its West Coast origin during a dynamic period in United States history. The obverse of this Liberty Double Eagle displays the classic profile of Liberty, her hair styled with a coronet bearing her name, surrounded by thirteen stars and the year 1857. The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle, a traditional symbol of American sovereignty. Finding an example from this mintage preserved in a superb certified grade of Mint State 65 (MS-65) offers a rare glimpse into the pristine craftsmanship of the mid nineteenth century.