1857-S Double Eagle $20 S.S. Central America PCGS MS64. No doubt will even the casual collector of American coins be delighted to view a coin such as the present. Certified by PCGS at the near gem level, it traces its pedigree back to the wreckage of the S.S. Central America, which sank in September 1857 (perhaps only weeks after this coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint) and was not discovered until 1987. Large quantities of 1857-S double eagles were discovered inside the wreckage, of which many were in uncirculated condition at or near the gem level. However, regardless of the number of coins found aboard the ship, all have been dispersed into the collecting/investing scene and offerings of these historic coins have become scarce, regardless of grade.

Three major shipwrecks that sank with valuable cargo have been discovered in the last couple of decades. The first and most famous, nicknamed Ship of Gold, was the S.S. Central America. It was discovered in 1987, and the value of its cargo has been estimated as high as 150 million dollars. Among the artifacts and coins recovered were a large number of items directly related to the California gold rush. Because of its find, historians and numismatic scholars have been able to study this major event in American history extensively, giving valuable insight into the importance of the discovery of gold in California, then distantly located from the original thirteen colonies that founded the United States in 1776.

As previously mentioned, the present coin has been certified by PCGS in a special holder, in near-gem condition. No major hits distract on either side, which are seen with full and fresh luster. Light-yellow color is seen and looks very pleasing in hand. The strike is full and sharp, highlighting all of the important details on this impressive gold coin. In earlier times, double eagles from this date were considered to be among the greatest rarities near gem condition, but now they are considered to be excellent and relatively affordable type coins. A great and historic coin and no doubt an excellent addition to any collection or investment portfolio.