1862-S Double Eagle NGC AU55 SS Republic. A wonderful, about uncirculated example of this San Francisco double eagle, pedigreed to the wreck of the S.S. Republic. These coins have been widely marketed during the next few years, but with the Civil War commemoration a few years ahead destined to rise in value. The present offering represents a great opportunity to acquire one of these storied coins when they are still affordable.

The wreckage of the S.S. Republic was found in 2003, just 1,700 feet under the surface of the coast of Georgia. There, it had rested since October 25, 1865, when it was lost at sea in a terrible hurricane. Its cargo was an immense quantity of gold coming from the California gold rush, in various forms. Included were a total of 127 1862-S double eagles, and many more issues dating back to 1838 gold eagles.

The present coin, identified to be from that famous shipwreck by the blue NGC holder is very lustrous. As all shipwreck coins, this coin has been carefully conserved after being in salt water for nearly 140 years. The coin now displays a light yellow color, which highlights the near flawless fields very well. Some wear is seen on the highest points, but overall this is a wonderful and above all storied coin, dating when the American Civil War was raging on this continent.