1863 Double Eagle NGC AU58. Struck in the midst of the American Civil War, the present coin is a survivor from a dark era in history. Its complete mintage, 142,790 was hoarded at first, as federal coins where nowhere to be seen. After the war, however, the majority did enter general commerce and as a result, the majority pieces are in VF and EF grades. AU pieces are scarce, and Mint State pieces are extremely rare, with less than a handful confirmed to exist. Q. David Bowers says the following about this issue in his Guide Book of Double Eagles:

“True Mint State pieces are so rare that many old-timers have never seen one”

Many Civil War gold issues were widely hoarded and are easily acquired in Mint-State. The double eagle, being the largest denomination regularly struck by the United States Mint, was widely needed in the reconstruction. Many pieces are thus damaged, cleaned or otherwise mistreated, and choice pieces are scarce.

This coin, certified by NGC as AU-58 is just a tiny bit of luster breaks short from true Mint-State. In fact, if the grading companies would award grading points to eye-appeal, this coin would be a no brainer. Totally original, with wonderful green-gold color and boldly struck surfaces. The fields are virtually mark-free, with only a small hint on the obverse, near Liberty’s chin that can be used for pedigree purposes. A rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest known pieces of this date, at the fraction of the cost of a graded Mint-State coin.