The 1873-CC Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a remarkable coin steeped in history, rarity, and intrigue. Produced at the Carson City Mint during the height of the American West’s gold rush era, this coin is a coveted piece among collectors for its connection to a storied past. With its low mintage and regional significance, the 1873-CC Double Eagle exemplifies the allure of U.S. gold coinage and its enduring value.
Historical Background
The Carson City Mint, established in 1870 in Nevada, was a product of the Comstock Lode’s silver boom and the region’s flourishing gold mining industry. Coins produced at this mint, identified by the “CC” mintmark, are highly prized for their association with the rugged history of the American West.
Design Features of the 1873-CC Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle
The 1873-CC Double Eagle is part of the Coronet Head series, designed by James B. Longacre, the U.S. Mint’s Chief Engraver. This design was introduced in 1850 and remained in use until 1907, reflecting the neoclassical artistic style of the mid-19th century.
Obverse:
The obverse features a portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Her hair is meticulously detailed, cascading over her shoulder. Surrounding her are 13 stars representing the original colonies, with the date “1873” positioned below.
Reverse:
The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing peace and readiness for defense. Above the eagle is the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” which was first added to the design in 1866. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY DOLLARS” encircle the reverse, while the “CC” mintmark is prominently displayed beneath the eagle.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1873-CC Double Eagle had a mintage of 22,410 coins, a relatively low figure compared to other Double Eagles of the time. Coins minted in Carson City often saw heavy use in circulation, and many were melted down or lost over time. As a result, surviving specimens are scarce, particularly in high grades.
Collectability and Value
The 1873-CC Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a centerpiece for any advanced numismatic collection, particularly for those focused on Carson City coinage or historic gold coins. Its value is influenced by several factors, including condition, eye appeal, and market demand.
- Circulated Grades: Coins in VF or EF condition typically sell for $10,000 to $20,000, depending on their quality and provenance.
- Uncirculated Grades: Specimens in Mint State (MS) condition can command prices exceeding $100,000, with some exceptional examples reaching $300,000 or more at auction.
- Provenance: Coins with a well-documented history or those from renowned collections often fetch higher premiums.
Historical Significance
The 1873-CC Double Eagle is more than just a rare coin; it is a relic of a transformative era in U.S. history. Its production at the Carson City Mint ties it to the gold rush and the economic development of the western United States. Additionally, its mintage during the year of the Coinage Act of 1873 underscores its place in the broader narrative of U.S. monetary policy.
Conclusion
The 1873-CC Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle is a numismatic gem that embodies the spirit of the Old West and the artistry of 19th-century American coinage. Its rarity, historical context, and stunning design make it a must-have for collectors and history enthusiasts alike. Whether as an investment or a treasured piece of Americana, this coin stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Carson City Mint and the golden age of U.S. coinage.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1873-CC Coronet Head Gold Double Eagle rare?
The 1873-CC Double Eagle is rare due to its low mintage of just 22,410 coins, heavy circulation use, and the loss of many examples over time. Surviving high-grade coins are exceptionally scarce.
2. What makes the 1873-CC Double Eagle historically significant?
This coin was minted during the height of the American West’s gold rush era at the Carson City Mint and is tied to the Coinage Act of 1873, which marked a shift in U.S. monetary policy.
3. How much is the 1873-CC Coronet Head Double Eagle worth?
The value varies by condition. Circulated coins can sell for $10,000 to $20,000, while uncirculated examples may fetch $100,000 or more at auction, depending on quality and demand.