1849 Eagle (1849 $10) SS Republic, Founders Edition #17/50, NGC AU55. This shipwrecked 1849 Eagle shows glowing mint luster within the devices of both sides. There is a slight amount of surface abrasion in keeping with the grade. There is also a bit of wear on the highest points of the design. The strike is bold and sharp. Every detail of both sides is clear and easy to see and appreciate. In 1849 the S.S. Republic was lost in a violent hurricane.

While most of the passengers and crew escaped, the cargo of gold coins and other goods was lost. Almost 140 years later the Odyssey Marine Exploration discovered the Republic off the coast of Georgia. Robotics was used to excavate the wreck because it was at a depth of 1,700 feet. Over 50,000 coins were recovered from the shipwreck, including the present piece.

The coin has been encapsulated with NGC’s special label, which has been used only for coins from the S.S. Republic.