1864 Double Eagle $20 PCGS AU55 CAC. Double eagles of any date are usually tough to find in fully original, lightly circulated condition, regardless of overall scarcity. When the specific issue, such as the 1864 double eagle can be linked directly to a major historic even, in this case the American Civil War such a coin becomes even more memorable. Advanced collectors of American gold coinage know that many of the Philadelphia double eagles of the mid to late 19th century are surprisingly scarce in the higher circulated and uncirculated grades. The 1864 double eagle is no exception, and this coin is a true prize for the specialist.

In the last full year of the American Civil War the Philadelphia Mint produced a total of 204,235 double eagles, a number on par with other years during this period. Most of these circulated among banks, as gold and silver coinage had completely ceased to circulate after the Civil War broke out, and uncirculated coins are extremely hard to find. Those that have been certified at the uncirculated level tend to do so in lower numerical grades, with many lacking eye-appeal. No doubt, for the collectors who care about the eye-appeal of their coins, this coin will be preferred over many uncirculated coins. This also makes it an excellent investment opportunity for the conscious investor in American gold coinage.

Lightly circulated, as previously mentioned, only some light friction indicates the short circulation this coin received. Abundant luster is visible on both sides, with only some minor contact marks visible in the fields. The eye-appeal of the coin is strong, and its full originality is seldom encountered on double eagles of the 1860. Khaki-gold coloration with green-golden highlights are seen on both sides. Both sides are remarkably struck, and no major striking weakness is encountered upon close magnification. On top of all that the coin has been stickered by CAC, attesting its grade, and making it a true collector coin surviving from the turbulent times of the American Civil War.