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 Replies: 8 / Views: 1,176 |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3843 Posts |
As many of you may know I'm currently assembling a slabbed U.S. Type Set which is going to mirror a Dansco 7070 with a few minor additions. I'm no where close to completion but was looking to knock out one of the tougher slots to fill on the gold page and thought that a Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle would be my next purchase. Since this will be by far the most expensive coin by far in my collection I was wondering if the forum could give me some advice on what grade level to get. The local coin shop in my are has a good selection slabbed double eagles ranging from AU to MS65, what should I consider? Thanks.
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Bedrock of the Community
United States
10982 Posts |
The best you can afford! Premiums are low right now and 64s are usually available at decent prices. Get a 65 if you can afford one.
Look at the obverse and reverse rays closely. Contact marks in the rays are considered to be a prime focal area. Look for fully struck pieces of course, full details in all devices. Luster should be very strong and avoid pieces with any spots of any color.
Good luck!
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Bedrock of the Community
Australia
21786 Posts |
Double eagles are big heavy coins, made with soft metal for their size. They are very sensitive to minor damage. Look for minor cuts in the rays and minor nicks in the fields. If you find one that is completely problem free, be prepared to pay the much greater premium above gold. Use a 10x loupe to examine them before making a purchase. That's what the TPG's use. With any major purchase, do due diligence first. |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
759 Posts |
This is an addition to your set where I'd recommend in-hand inspection prior to purchase, if at all possible, for the above mentioned traits or lack thereof. I think that would pay huge dividends in long term satisfaction. Good luck. It's a magnificent coin.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1704 Posts |
Quote:
This is an addition to your set where I'd recommend in-hand inspection prior to purchase  I would take it one step further and recommend all gold purchases, regardless of denomination, should be done while looking at the coin in hand. Ed ANA LM-3175 |
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Pillar of the Community
 United States
3843 Posts |
Are light copper spots to be avoided at all costs? I have looked at a few examples and they have a few small discolorations along the edges of the coin. Thanks for the advice. Looking at MS64 coins in PCGS holders.
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Moderator
 United States
23522 Posts |
I don't know if I'd use the term "at all costs," but sufficient examples lacking such spots exist and in the odd atmosphere surrounding Saints - they're a very popular issue for investors as well as collectors - the price would likely be no different. You don't need to settle for them.
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Valued Member
United States
291 Posts |
If I was only getting one, I'd pick a common issue with a lower population. Any of the teen years, or 1920. There is an overdate available, but it might be at a premium. I'd probably get a 1913 or 1920?
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3843 Posts |
Quote:
If I was only getting one, I'd pick a common issue with a lower population. Any of the teen years, or 1920. There is an overdate available, but it might be at a premium. I'd probably get a 1913 or 1920? Thanks. Now that I'm looking at these beautiful coins I don't know if I'm going to be able to limit myself to only one! LOL my coin budget is going to be feeling the impact for years. |
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Replies: 8 / Views: 1,176 |
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Posted 01/27/2013 04:54 am
