Only 17,837 1871-CC double eagles were struck for circulation, and the vast majority disappeared into circulation, where they would remain for many years. Given a lack of contemporary collectors in the remote region and the specie based economy of the Old West, circulation and attrition took their toll on the mintage. It is estimated that about 215 survive in all grades, many of which have problems that preclude numeric grading. Rusty Goe suggests there are between 100 and 135 in the EF to AU grade range. Next to the first year of issue 1870-CC, the 1871-CC is the rarest Carson City double eagle in all grades.
In the March 2024 installment of the Fairmont Collection, we are proud to offer a totally original and wholesome example graded AU-53 by PCGS and endorsed by CAC. The eye appeal is exceptional for the issue, with surfaces that are fully original and bathed in golden-apricot color. The luster is uncommonly brilliant for the assigned grade and lightly prooflike across both sides. Scattered marks are evenly distributed and commensurate with an early date CC-Mint twenty at this grade level; none are worthy of undue concern.
PCGS has graded 14 in AU-53 and a total of 15 finer, with MS-61 being the top grade seen at that service. CAC has endorsed two in this grade, with just a single coin finer.
This coin is a highlight of the Mont-Blanc Set of coins from the Fairmont Collection, and will no doubt see very spirited bidding when it crosses the block. Click here to see all the coins in the Fairmont Collection Mont-Blanc Set.
