Certified US Gold $20 Liberty 1885-S MS62+ PCGS

The Certified U.S. Gold $20 Liberty 1885-S MS62+ PCGS is an exceptional Mint State example of 19th-century American gold coinage, offering both historic depth and numismatic distinction. Struck at the San Francisco Mint and graded MS62+ by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), this coin holds an edge over standard MS62 examples due to its superior eye appeal, luster, or strike—placing it just shy of the MS63 tier. The “+” designation signifies a coin at the high end of its assigned grade, making it particularly attractive to collectors seeking premium quality within a more accessible Mint State range. The 1885-S is part of the Type III Liberty Head Double Eagle series (1877–1907), and this piece stands out as a high-end survivor from a heavily circulated and melted mintage.

The obverse features the timeless design by James B. Longacre, showing Lady Liberty in profile facing left. She wears a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY,” and her hair is tied in a bun with loose curls flowing down her neck. Thirteen six-pointed stars representing the original colonies circle the central portrait, and the date “1885” appears prominently at the base. In MS62+ condition, Liberty’s facial features, coronet, and hair detail remain well-defined and fully struck. The coin exhibits strong cartwheel luster and minimal contact marks in focal areas such as the cheek and fields, with a level of preservation and visual appeal that clearly surpasses a typical MS62.

The reverse displays the Type III design featuring a bold heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching arrows and an olive branch in its talons. A scroll above the eagle bears the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and thirteen stars arc above it. Surrounding inscriptions read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “TWENTY DOLLARS”—the full denomination spelling being the hallmark of the Type III revision. Below the eagle, the “S” mintmark identifies San Francisco as the issuing mint. On this MS62+ example, the eagle’s feathers and shield lines are sharply defined, and the legends are crisp, showing minimal bag marks and exceptional brilliance for the grade.

Composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, the coin weighs 33.44 grams and has a diameter of 34 millimeters. Its gold content of 0.9675 troy ounces made it a preferred denomination for large commercial transactions, bank reserves, and foreign trade. The San Francisco Mint, located near California’s rich gold deposits, played a leading role in converting raw gold into circulating coinage, especially Double Eagles. These coins often circulated throughout the Pacific Rim and Europe or were stored as financial reserves, which makes surviving Mint State coins—especially in premium condition like MS62+—relatively scarce.

The total mintage for the 1885-S $20 Liberty was 683,500 coins. While not a key date in the series, most examples saw extensive use or were eventually melted during the 20th century, particularly following the 1933 gold recall. As a result, high-quality Mint State survivors represent only a small fraction of the original issue. PCGS population data shows that while MS62 examples are available, those with the “+” designation are considerably fewer and signal a coin that stands apart from others in its class. Collectors who focus on premium quality within a grade often prioritize “+” examples for their relative rarity and superior appearance.

MS62+ coins are uncirculated and show no wear, but they possess luster, surface quality, or strike characteristics closer to an MS63. These coins may display fewer or smaller abrasions than typical MS62s, with more eye-catching reflectivity or color. On this 1885-S, one might expect soft satiny or semi-prooflike fields, strong definition in the eagle’s wingtips, and minimal abrasions across Liberty’s face and the surrounding stars. The “+” designation, authenticated by PCGS, ensures that this coin is among the finest of its numerical grade—an appealing option for both quality-conscious collectors and investors.

San Francisco Mint coins from the 1880s are known for their bold strikes and vibrant color. The 1885-S is no exception, often presenting a rich golden hue with possible hints of rose or orange from copper alloy and natural aging. Many examples have been well preserved thanks to long-term bank storage or overseas trade reserves. This MS62+ specimen, with its extra level of visual clarity, likely offers deeper cartwheel luster and stronger strike depth than most others in its class—making it a premium choice for type or date-mint collectors.

Historically, the 1880s mark the height of America’s Gilded Age—a time of rapid industrialization, technological innovation, and massive wealth generation. Gold coinage remained the foundation of the U.S. monetary system, and the Double Eagle, as the highest circulating denomination, was essential to banking, international settlements, and reserve systems. San Francisco’s strategic location and proximity to gold production gave it an outsized role in minting these large coins. The 1885-S Double Eagle reflects that legacy, offering both substantial gold content and a direct connection to the Western financial engine of the 19th century.

Today, the Certified U.S. Gold $20 Liberty 1885-S MS62+ PCGS is a standout coin for collectors focused on high-quality, pre-1933 U.S. gold with a strong historical pedigree. It is especially appealing for those seeking premium quality within the Mint State range, without the exponential cost jump to MS63 or higher. The PCGS “+” designation confirms its elevated status among its peers, providing assurance of both condition and visual excellence. Whether acquired for a Liberty Head type set, a San Francisco Mint date-mint collection, or as a long-term tangible asset, this coin represents exceptional value and enduring American numismatic history.