1861 Eagle $10 NGC MS61. While most 1861 gold coins minted in Philadelphia are fairly easily available in uncirculated condition, the ten dollar gold piece of this year is an exception to the rule. Struck in the first year of the American Civil War, the mintage was a relatively high 113,164 pieces. However, the majority of the examples that are known to exist are found in lower grades, with enough wear visible to limit the grade to AU-55. Mint state examples, such as the piece we presently offer are truly scarce, and premium quality examples and higher grades become rare. As such, one should not underestimate the importance of this issue in mint state, despite the relatively available label this issue has.

Important for uncirculated date sets of Civil War coinage, this coin has excellent eye-appeal for the grade. The fields are relatively free of marks, with only a few scattered hairlines visible under magnification. At first glance, the creamy and fresh fields, combined with light devices will distract the eye from the few imperfections this coin has. Fully struck, all devices are brought up to full detail, with no weakness discernible on either side. Fully lustrous, with satiny luster compliments this coin, which has excellent eye-appeal. While many coins certified at the lower mint state levels do not have much eye-appeal, this coin truly is an exception, and would make for a perfect addition for a high grade set.