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

The 1857-S $20 Double Eagle recovered from the S.S. Central America shipwreck represents a fascinating piece of American history. When the ship sank in September 1857, it took with it a massive cargo of Gold Rush-era coins and ingots that would remain on the ocean floor for over 130 years. The recovery of these coins provided the numismatic world with pristine examples of San Francisco Mint gold coinage from this pivotal period.

This MS64 CAC example showcases exceptional preservation, thanks to its time in the cold, dark waters of the Atlantic. The surfaces display rich, satiny luster with a distinctive golden color that's characteristic of these recovered pieces. The fields are remarkably clean for the grade, and the strike is bold and complete throughout. The eye appeal is outstanding, with minimal contact marks and no significant imperfections.