1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle : A Collector’s Guide

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The 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle is a highly coveted coin among collectors due to its historical significance, rarity, and association with the tumultuous period of the American Civil War. Here's a comprehensive collector's guide to this specific coin:

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Historical Context: The 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle was minted during a pivotal time in American history, marking the end of the Civil War and the beginning of Reconstruction.

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The coinage of double eagles, with a face value of $20, played a crucial role in facilitating commerce and financial transactions during this period of rebuilding.

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Design: The obverse (front) of the 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "LIBERTY."

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Mintage: The "S" mint mark on the coin indicates that it was minted at the San Francisco Mint in California. The 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle had a relatively low mintage, with only 27,612 coins struck. This limited mintage, combined with the challenges of preserving coins from this era, contributes to the rarity and desirability of this coin among collectors.

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Collector Value: Due to its historical significance and scarcity, the 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle is highly prized by collectors. Examples in any condition are considered treasures, but coins in better condition or those with sharp details and minimal wear command premium prices in the numismatic market.

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Grading and Authentication: When collecting the 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle, it's crucial to ensure the coin's authenticity and condition.

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Due to the age of the coin and the potential for counterfeiting, coins should be authenticated by reputable third-party grading services, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).

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Collecting Strategies: Collectors may pursue various strategies when acquiring the 1865-S Liberty Head Double Eagle. Some aim to assemble a complete set of Liberty Head Double Eagles, including all mint marks and major varieties.

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