The SS Brother Jonathan was lost at sea near Crescent City in the night of July 30, 1865 in the midst of a heavy storm. Many lives were lost, with only one tiny float surviving the horrendous waves. The ship went down in the sea, and rested there until the 1990s, when it was finally located.

As had been the case with the SS Central America, and later with the SS Central Republic, the cargo was taken out of the ship. A total number of 1,207 double eagles were recovered, the majority of these being freshly minted 1865-S double eagles. These, earlier considered to be rare in uncirculated condition, are now more easily acquired but still very popular.

The present coin is one of those, in near gem condition. Certified by PCGS in a special Brother Jonathan holder, with a drawing of the ship on the label. The coin is a wonderful example of this date, which had a total mintage of 1,042,500 pieces. Lustrous and boldly struck, with light to medium yellow-orange coloration on both sides. A great coin, with a special story to tell.