A rare 1870-CC Double Eagle from the Carson City Mint is set to attract collectors’ attention at Heritage Auctions’ upcoming US Coins Signature® Auction, running from December 12-15. This coin, a part of the historic collection, is among the few remaining from a mintage of just 3,789 pieces. Due to its rarity, it has become one of the most coveted gold coins from the Carson City Mint, with estimates suggesting that only 40 to 65 specimens still exist today. The 1870-CC Double Eagle is considered a true prize within the double eagle series, representing an important chapter in US coin history.
The Carson City Mint, established in 1870 after the discovery of gold and silver in the Comstock Lode, was a focal point of government debate. The mint’s operations were frequently debated, particularly with conflicting interests related to silver mining. Between 1886 and 1888, coin production at the Carson City Mint was halted due to pressures to close the facility. Congressman Thomas Fitch famously opposed these efforts, delivering a powerful speech that saved the mint from closure. In honor of Fitch’s efforts, the 1870-CC Double Eagle was struck, making it one of the mint’s rarest and most historically significant coins.
Todd Imhof, Executive Vice President at Heritage Auctions, emphasized the coin’s importance, describing the 1870-CC Double Eagle, XF45 as an exceptional survivor. Graded 45, it is one of only 10 examples in this condition, and no specimens are known in Mint State. The rarity of this coin, particularly in this grade, makes it an outstanding piece for any serious numismatic collection.
The auction will also feature another standout item: the sole 1907 High Relief Double Eagle to earn a PR66 grade with the coveted Star designation, signifying its superior eye appeal. This coin, which was on display at the Museum of Money in Manhattan before being consigned, is part of a broader collection of over 800 lots. This particular example is one of only 291 proofs of the 1907 High Relief Double Eagle, with just 25 graded as PR66 or higher. It stands as the finest example of its kind with the Star designation.
In addition to these remarkable coins, the auction includes a variety of other rare and sought-after pieces, such as:
- An 1871-CC Double Eagle, VF30 NGC CAC, Winter 1-A
- An 1891-CC Double Eagle, AU58 NGC CAC, Winter 1-A
- An 1851 Double Eagle, MS64 PCGS
- A 1924-S Double Eagle, MS65 NGC, which is an exceptional rarity due to the high rate of melting during the 1930s gold recall.
- A selection of 1875 Liberty Quarter Eagles, including an MS60 example, which is one of the few remaining Mint State examples from a small mintage of just 400 coins.
Among the intriguing lots is an 1861 Seven-Piece Silver and Minor Proof Set, ranging from PR62 to PR67, which includes various denominations such as a Cent PR62, a Dime PR66, and a Silver Dollar PR67. The proof Seated Dollar from this set is considered one of the finest examples of this rare issue.
Other notable pieces include the 1893-S Morgan Dollar, AU55 PCGS CAC, a sought-after coin due to its low mintage, and a 1856 Half Dollar, PR65 Cameo PCGS CAC, which is one of only a few proofs from that year.
The auction, featuring 125 double eagles, offers an unparalleled opportunity for collectors to acquire some of the rarest and most historically significant coins in US numismatic history. For more information on these lots and to place bids, visit HA.com/1379.
Heritage Auctions is the world’s largest collectibles auctioneer, renowned for its expertise and extensive global reach. With offices across major cities such as New York, Dallas, and London, Heritage Auctions hosts the most successful online auctions in the art and collectibles market.
