1857-S Liberty Gold Double Eagle ($20) S.S. Central America

The 1857-S $20 Double Eagle represents a fascinating piece of American history, recovered from the famous S.S. Central America shipwreck. This ship, laden with Gold Rush treasure, sank in a hurricane off the Carolina coast in September 1857. The recovery of these coins in the late 20th century provided an unprecedented window into the height of California Gold Rush coinage.

This AU53 example, certified by PCGS and bearing a CAC sticker, showcases remarkable preservation thanks to its time in the deep ocean environment. The surfaces display rich golden color with minimal circulation wear, retaining much of the original mint luster. The fields show light, honest wear consistent with the grade, while the devices remain crisp and well-defined. The eye appeal is exceptional for a shipwreck coin, showing none of the common environmental damage often seen on recovered pieces.

The historical significance of this coin cannot be overstated - it's not just a Double Eagle, but a tangible connection to one of the most dramatic episodes in American economic history. The S.S. Central America coins have become legendary within numismatics, representing both the peak of the California Gold Rush and its most tragic maritime disaster.