1897-S Double Eagles Liberty Head PCGS MS-62

The 1897-S Double Eagle Liberty Head is a $20 gold coin minted in 1897 at the San Francisco Mint (indicated by the "S" mintmark). This coin features the Liberty Head design, created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, with a total weight of 33.44 grams.

A PCGS MS-62 grade indicates that the coin is in Mint State, classified as "Choice Uncirculated." This means the coin has retained its original mint luster and sharp details, but it shows noticeable imperfections, such as contact marks, minor scratches, or light abrasions from handling or storage. These minor flaws prevent it from being considered a higher grade (such as MS-63 or MS-64), but it is still an attractive and well-preserved example of a Double Eagle.

The 1897-S Double Eagle is a bit scarcer compared to coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint, as the San Francisco Mint typically produced fewer coins. However, it is still considered a relatively common coin in the series, though coins with a higher mintage from Philadelphia are often more abundant. San Francisco-minted coins like the 1897-S can have added appeal to collectors due to their lower mintage relative to the Philadelphia counterparts.

In MS-62 condition, the coin offers a good balance between affordability and quality for collectors. Coins in this grade are more accessible to those looking for a historically significant example of U.S. gold coinage, particularly for those who want a San Francisco-minted coin from the Liberty Head series, before the transition to the Saint-Gaudens design in 1907.

Overall, the 1897-S Double Eagle in PCGS MS-62 is an excellent addition to a collection of U.S. gold coins, with its blend of historical importance, design, and relatively lower mintage from San Francisco.