1860-O Gold Eagle NGC AU58 SS Republic

1860-O Gold Eagle NGC AU58 SS Republic. Nicknamed the "ship of gold", the S.S. Republic was one of the major gold finds during the last few decades. A few ships, lost since the mid 19th century has brought to light a large variety of gold coins, but often with the majority being a single, freshly Minted date.

The coins that were found in the wreckage of the S.S. Republic have been extensively documented. This documentation, which has not been widely publicized, reveals that only two 1860-O eagles were found aboard the ship, and the present piece was one of them, as identified by the special NGC holder

A total of just 11,100 eagles were struck at the New Orleans Mint, the last year before the Mint was closed down following the Civil War. As can be expected with such a small mintage, examples are scarce in all grades, and especially so in higher AU grades. In Mint State, this is one of the scarcest eagles struck at the New Orleans Mint.

The present piece is a wonderful piece with only the smallest hint of rub on the highest points. Although conserved, as all shipwreck coins have, the coin remains very lustrous with very nice, light-yellow color. The strike is very bold, and there are no major hits that the coin acquired during its short time in circulation. A wonderful and rare piece from a famous shipwreck sunk in 1865.