1854 $20 Large Date PCGS AU-58 CAC
Per Doug Winter - "The 1854 Large Date double eagle employs the date logotype found on the silver dollars and certain New Orleans eagles of this year. It is not known how many were produced but given the relatively small number known today, it is likely that fewer than 10% of the original mintage used the Large Date punch. This variety typically shows below-average quality eye appeal. Most are heavily abraded and have been cleaned or dipped. Locating an example with good eye appeal is very difficult and a choice high end example is worth a strong premium above a typical piece."
This example is leaps and bounds more appealing than most surviving AU examples. The surfaces are free of any detracting abrasions, and the rich amber tone compliments the eye appeal nicely. Traces of dirt in the denticles and around the devices only demonstrates the stone-cold originality of this highly desirable variety.
A coin like this presents a wonderful opportunity when you look back at pricing, even in 2010 an AU58 CAC example would not sell for less than $20,000. Price trends show consistent APRs between $19,000-$23,000 with the most recent comp being the weakest at 17,400 ex HA 9/23.
PCGS Guide - $22,500
CAC Guide - $20,900
EDIT 6/25/24
CAC Guide lowered to $18,700, price was adjusted accordingly.
PCGS Pop - 25/10
CAC Pop - 13/9