1859 Double Eagle

HBCC#:

6037

Breen#:

n/a

BD#:

n/a

Judd#:

257

Pollock#:

306

This lovely example is a variation of the normally seen patterns from these Anthony Paquet-engraved dies. Virtually all known patterns of this design have a reeded edge. This Bass Collection example, however, has a plain edge and is unique as such. The obverse features a seated representation of Liberty, supporting a fasces in her right hand and a shield with her left. Harry Bass acquired this coin from the Gaston DiBello Collection, sold at auction in 1970. This variation was not listed by Dr. J. Hewitt Judd in his pattern reference, with its importance first recognized by Harry Bass.

Provenance:

From Stack's sale of the DiBello Collection, May 1970, Lot 503.

Obverse:

Liberty seated, facing left, right hand on fasces, left hand on shield, eagle behind, olive branch and arrows below shield, 13 stars around. This general style was also used on pattern half dollars, is attributed to Paquet, and upon close examination is fairly crude in its details, particularly the face of Miss Liberty.

Reverse:

Oak and laurel wreath around circumference, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around inside of wreath, 20 DOLLARS 1859 in three lines in center of wreath.

Commentary:

"Discovery-plain edge! Unique?"