1856-S $20 Liberty Head Double Eagle – PCGS AU58 “Full Serif, Bold S” | Ship of Gold Holder with 1857 California Gold Dust

Struck at the San Francisco Mint from freshly mined California gold, the 1856-S Liberty Head Double Eagle represents one of the most historic issues of the pre–Civil War era. This example, graded AU58 by PCGS, features the coveted “Full Serif, Bold S” mintmark variety and resides in the exclusive Ship of Gold holder alongside authentic 1857 California gold dust—linking it directly to the legendary S.S. Central America treasure.

Designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, the obverse features the classic portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, encircled by thirteen stars with the date below. The reverse displays the powerful heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch beneath a glory of rays and stars. The bold “S” mintmark below the eagle attests to its origin at the San Francisco Mint, a beacon of stability during the chaotic Gold Rush years.

This near-Mint State specimen radiates original golden luster with only the faintest touch of friction on the high points. The devices are sharply defined, showing crisp hair detail and full feather texture on the eagle. The fields retain a rich, frosted glow complemented by warm honey-gold tones. Its preservation and eye appeal clearly place it among the finest survivors of its type from this historic issue.

Encased in the Ship of Gold presentation holder with genuine 1857 gold dust recovered from the wreck of the S.S. Central America, this coin unites two of the most compelling stories in American numismatics—the dawn of the San Francisco Mint and the greatest treasure recovery in U.S. history. A remarkable collectible for the advanced numismatist, it stands as both a work of art and a tangible artifact of the California Gold Rush.

The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.